Good morning, Ocala.

Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ closed its Ocala restaurant at 2463 SW 27th Avenue for the third time as owners Amanda & Philip Jones blamed high startup costs and unfair franchise agreements for the repeated shutdowns.

They warned future franchisees of the risks and thanked customers for their support.

Marion County jurors acquitted Abraham Yosef Bordas—an Ocala man charged with manslaughter for the December shooting death of his best friend—after his trial ended on July 16.

A former furniture store employee in Summerfield filed a lawsuit on July 13 claiming she faced religious harassment and unwanted sexual advances—including an unconsented kiss on the lips—that led to a hostile work environment and her firing on July 12.

Her attorneys are seeking more than $50,000 in damages for lost wages, emotional distress, and other injuries.

Two pitchers from the College of Central Florida were drafted last week—Cory Geinzer was selected in the 19th round by the Texas Rangers and Joey Wimpelberg in the 17th round by the Detroit Tigers—and they join Ocala native Kolten Smith, who was picked a few rounds earlier by the Minnesota Twins.

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.