Good morning, Ocala.

Families in Ocala gathered yesterday for the Dandelion Project butterfly release — a memorial event for bereaved parents who lost loved ones — offering a quiet moment of support and remembrance.

Vanessa Mingo and her children earned a new home after completing over 400 volunteer hours with Habitat for Humanity of Marion County when keys were passed on Wednesday, July 23.

Mingo said her volunteer work helped her learn budgeting—skills key for homeownership.

Ocala residents are happy about Big Lots returning in place of the closed Roses store in southwest Ocala—many said the store’s mix of clothing, food and furniture fits their needs.

A few letters also noted missing items that only Big Lots used to carry.

A 44-year-old man, identified as Antwan Demorris Scott, allegedly struck a victim with a baseball bat over a $250 dispute at a Marion County mobile home park on July 20th — he was arrested at the scene and is set to appear in court on August 19th at 9 a.m. facing charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and resisting an officer.

Ocala is hosting its first Florida Toy Show where host Jeff Davis displays vintage toys that help visitors relive their childhoods.

The event is part of Collectorfest and has drawn a surprising turnout with plans to return soon (collectors are excited by the rare finds).

About 6,750 students received new backpacks filled with school supplies at seven Community Giveback locations as part of the back-to-school event.

Local partners such as AdventHealth Ocala + Stuff The Bus helped make the event successful.

Marion County leaders are inviting residents to fill out a survey on community litter as officials update the county's litter ordinance.

The survey follows nearly four years since the Litter Task Force was created—officials want to further reduce litter in the area.

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.

Titans of Rock

7:30-9 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Ticketed event — Experience the best anthems of Journey and Bon Jovi live in one electrifying performance.

Mermaids vs. Pirates Roller Derby Scrimmage

1:30-4 p.m. — Ocala Downtown Market — $10 admission, kids under 12 free — Enjoy a thrilling roller derby scrimmage featuring an exciting showdown between mermaids and pirates.