Good morning, Ocala.

Wawa at 5200 S. Pine Ave. in Ocala did not open on Aug.

21 because finishing touches are still underway+ its public relations team said it will announce a new opening date soon.

Ellianos Coffee, a drive-thru chain active in Marion and Lake counties, opened its second Ocala location at 101 SW 60th Avenue near West State Road 40—close to Ocala Breeders’ Sales and the airport.

The shop, owned by the Bullard Investment Group including local residents Bryan and Kyle, offers a range of coffees, teas, smoothies, bagels and pastries and operates Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

An Ocala man attacked a cashier while trying to rob Beavers Discount Liquor on May 6th and was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison after pleading guilty to attempted robbery with a deadly weapon and aggravated battery — video evidence and DNA testing linked him to the crime.

Ernest Morris filed a lawsuit on July 23 against Sheriff Billy Woods and Detective Zachary Elliott, alleging that on March 17, 2024, when he faced a mental health crisis, deputies tased him after he surrendered—resulting in a broken back, spinal damage, and permanent disability while he was not under arrest and now seeks over $75,000 in damages.

Leslie Hammond, a respected art expert with a Ph.D., will join the LILAC Foundation as director of strategic initiatives on Sept.

2 to boost community ties and lead new arts programs—including an initiative for long COVID. She will work with local leaders and Artistic Director Geraldo Rodriguez to develop grants and expand cultural opportunities in Marion County.

Marion County Fire Rescue has launched an academy for high school seniors to learn the Firefighter 1 curriculum and build physical fitness.

Students who graduate high school and complete the course will be offered a job with the department — they will finish the second half of their training while working full-time.

Marion County officials granted a conditional approval on August 19 allowing a Silver Springs homeowner to keep her emotional support pot-bellied pig despite a 69-signature petition and neighbor concerns about odor and water contamination — the pig must be kept indoors except when supervised and the owner must remove her quails and rabbits within 14 days.

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.

MCA Annual Auction & Closing Party

5-7 p.m. — Marion Cultural Alliance at Brick City Center for the Arts — Supports local arts — Experience a festive evening with art and community spirit while bidding on unique auction items.

2025 Ocala Comic Con Weekend Pass

8:00 PM – 10:29 AM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Kids 10 and under are FREE — Experience Florida's largest comic convention packed with comic books, video games, and cosplay.

Marion Oaks Hispanic Heritage Celebration

11 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Marion Oaks Community Center — Free entry — Celebrate Hispanic heritage with art activities for kids and live entertainment.