Good morning, Ocala.

Marion County firefighters tore a truck’s roof off—rescuing a man after it crashed into a tree line and taking him to the hospital.

Roses Discount Store at 8445 SW State Road 200 in southwest Ocala is closing soon to be rebranded as Big Lots and will reopen later this fall—following a statewide conversion after all previous Big Lots locations closed earlier this year.

No official reopening date has been set.

Most Florida students will return to class on August 11 while a federal judge temporarily blocked a social media law signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis that would ban minors under 16 from using some platforms — the ruling issued on June 3 found the law likely unconstitutional.

Alachua County’s fire chief was recognized by the Florida Fire Chiefs Association as one of Florida’s best.

His honor underlines his leadership in fire safety + supports the strength of local emergency services.

A daughter has filed a lawsuit alleging that Palm Garden of Ocala provided negligent care that led to her mother developing severe infections and ultimately dying on May 2 after being sent to the hospital in March 2024—attorneys claim the facility ignored transfer requests and failed to monitor her decline, seeking over $50,000 in damages. The complaint details her worsening condition starting from a fall on January 13, 2024 and subsequent health issues that were not properly addressed.

Marion County commissioners approved a master plan for Westwood Trails on Monday at 7875 SW 75th Avenue in southwest Ocala — paving the way for 69 new homes and amenities such as a playground, dog park, pavilion, and picnic area.

Neighbors supported the plan after the developer engaged with the community — ensuring a positive working relationship moving forward.

Two Ocala sisters, Gerkary and Andreina Blanco, will represent Team USA at the Paintball World Championships in Dreux, France from August 27—28 as they try for a third international title.

They previously won in 2023 and 2024 and recently claimed the top spot at the National XBall League’s Midwest Open.

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.

First Time Home Buyer Workshop

5-9 p.m. — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion SELP — Free entry — Get expert advice and resources to turn your homeownership dreams into reality.

The Jersey Tenors Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Circle Square Cultural Center — Tickets $32-35 — Experience an explosive blend of opera and rock with iconic Jersey music.