Good morning, Ocala.

On July 28, a fire destroyed Antioch Missionary Baptist Church at 2350 NE 140th Street in Citra at around 5:49 a.m.—firefighters from 12 units and 29 responders controlled the blaze by 7:20 a.m. with no injuries reported as state investigators examine its cause.

Marion County Sheriff’s deputies are investigating a fatal shooting in Summerfield after a male victim was found with a gunshot wound on the 17800 Block of Southeast 21st Court at 7:15 a.m.—he died at the scene—and officials say more details will follow.

Officials at Winding Oaks Elementary in Ocala are getting ready for the new school year by giving all grades a guided tour on Wednesday morning, and principal Traci Crawford—who has over 30 years of experience in the district—said the school will blend traditions using green, white, and blue. Parents and students will meet teachers on Friday, Aug. 8 before classes begin on Monday.

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.

FL-Labor Day Barrel Blast

August 28th – September 1st — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — $40,000 Added — Experience thrilling barrel racing competitions with significant prize money.

Ocala Shrine Rodeo

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion SELP — $25 at the gate — Experience traditional rodeo fun featuring bronc riding, barrel racing, and more at the 40th Annual event.