Good morning, Ocala.

Ocala mourns the loss of Rev.

Lorenzo Edwards, a longtime pastor at Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church (a historic church founded by former slaves) and former city council member. He died Aug. 17 at age 88, and community leaders recall him as a civil rights champion and mentor.

On Aug. 18, early returns from the Marion County School Board primary showed incumbent Rev.

Eric Cummings winning District 3 with 56.45% while races in Districts 4 and 5 move to November runoffs. Board Chair Sarah James led District 5 with 49.18% (and Mike Mills topped District 4 with 36.86%).

Residents are warned not to wait for a forecasted hurricane before prepping; local weather experts advise preparing early to avoid flood risks, power outages, and supply shortages + overwhelmed local stores.

The state approved conservation easements for four ranches covering over 2,600 acres, paying more than $16 million to prevent commercial or residential development.

The Department of Agriculture announced the deals under the Rural and Family Land Protection Program and included Dale Wright Farms in Marion County.

Praise & Pilates is a new boutique studio blending low-impact Pilates with faith-based guidance at 3620 NE 8th Place in Ocala.

Founded by local resident Alexa Sulter — inspired by her personal journey — the studio offers classes that mix athletic workouts with moments of reflection for all fitness levels.

During an Aug. 11 inspection, El Ranchito Tipico Ocala at 1415 NW 10th St. was temporarily closed for failing health standards after inspectors found 27 violations including food stored in nonfood-grade containers + improper handling.

Publix is reintroducing its limited-edition NFL team-themed sandwiches at select store locations to serve fans with customized subs for game-day tailgates & home watch parties.

The sandwiches featuring recipes for the Dolphins, Buccaneers, Jaguars and Falcons can be ordered online for pickup this football season.

An Ocala resident praised local American Ninja Warrior competitor Nacssa Garemore for his consistent performance and urged him to go all the way, with the letter submitted August 16 reflecting community pride (a true Ocala cheer).