Good morning, Ocala.

On August 14th, 2025, nearly two dozen people gathered in downtown Ocala to take pictures with Molly's statue as they honored the dog who survived abuse and sparked an anti-animal abuse movement.

Molly died in 2023 — her legacy continues to drive programs against animal abuse in the community.

A well being check at SE 50th Court on Tuesday, August 12 in Ocala led a corporal to arrest a 72 year old Edward Gene Morris+ he was wanted in Louisiana for violating probation on armed robbery and attempted first degree murder and is now held in Marion County Jail awaiting extradition.

A Marion County man was found guilty of sexually abusing a minor—court proceedings concluded on August 15.

Marion County Public Schools formalized its longtime practice of raising first-semester failing grades to at least 55% for middle and high school students to allow them a chance to improve their academic standing — officials confirmed the change in an email sent on August 15th.

The owner of a 42-unit apartment complex at 2275 SW 53rd Avenue in southwest Ocala has proposed a development to add over 400 new homes on a 39-acre site—The plan, which includes 459 units of single-family, townhome and multi-family options, will be reviewed by the Ocala City Council on Tuesday, August 19 at 4 p.m.

The Ocala Vipers from the Universal Football League Xtreme are hosting a gathering at Lillian Bryant Park on Sunday, August 17 at 3 p.m.—open to potential players and coaches—to showcase their skills before an official tryout event is set.

Marion County high school volleyball fans are invited to vote for the preseason player of the year among 10 athletes+voting closes Monday at 7:30 p.m. and the winner will be announced Tuesday morning as the season begins.

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.