Good morning, Ocala.

Frida’s Tacos & Tequila is putting the final touches on its new restaurant at 2445 SW 27th Avenue in southwest Ocala and will open soon.

The business is owned by Miguel Santillan and was built by Baker Construction & Management, joining several other new Mexican eateries in the area.

The family of a 73-year-old disabled Vietnam veteran killed in custody has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Marion County Sheriff’s Office claiming that deputies used force during booking that led to his death while the department says the officers acted in good faith—seeking over $75,000 in damages for the veteran’s children.

A fight outside a McDonald’s on West Highway 326 in Ocala ended when 58-year-old Junior McSwain allegedly threatened another homeless man with a knife over a panhandling spot on July 13—he was arrested on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and battery and is set to appear in court on August 12.

Dr. Raymond Webber turned an abandoned 110‑year‑old limestone quarry in Williston into a 20‑acre botanical garden featuring waterfalls, koi ponds, and diverse plants that opened to the public in 2014 and now draws thousands of visitors.

He and his team continue to improve the grounds—adding new paths and planning a conservation and education center—to preserve nature for all.

Marion County officials declared Saturday as Parks and Recreation Professionals Day to recognize local employees for their work in making life better for residents—showing the county values their service.

Marion County held Parks and Recreation Professionals Day on July 19th to honor park and recreation workers for their service and to discuss plans to improve community amenities.

Ocala teen Nacssa Garemore set the fastest qualifying time in the American Ninja Warrior semifinals on July 14 and earned a spot in the finals—he will compete in a seeded bracket on Monday, July 21 at 8 p.m. for a chance to win $250,000.

Officials with Ocala Breeders’ Sales said Scottish Lassie earned its second Grade 1 victory—adding to its record of strong performances in top-tier races.

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.

DCCW: HEATWAVE

7-10 p.m. — Silver Springs Shores Community Center — $20 adults, $12 kids — Experience intense wrestling action as Jake Logan defends his title against Romeo Quevedo.