Good morning, Ocala.

John Westbrook, a Marion County man, sued Martin & Weiss, LLC on August 13 after he claimed two drunk women trampled him during a December 11 concert at Mutiny Bar—he says the bar gave them too much alcohol, which led to his serious injuries.

Pink and Sweet Bakery & Restaurant is opening next week in east Ocala at 2515 NE 3rd Street after Taverna Berrocal moved, and it is owned by Marta & Blanca Arias; the bakery will offer custom cakes, cheesecakes, macarons and breakfast options.

Its grand opening celebration is set for August 25.

Darrell Kelley dropped off 21 dogs at Dogwalker Ranch on July 9—animals that owner Ayla Pritchard said were covered in vomit and feces and needed surgery—while she said the dogs will be available for adoption on August 26 after Kelley failed to pay a $40,000 balance.

A Michigan mother filed a lawsuit on June 17 in Marion County alleging her estranged daughter stole her 15-year-old horse, Undaunted, after a dispute over college costs in 2020—she claims the daughter drove the horse to Florida for winter work and is seeking more than $50,000 in damages.

Belleview resident Rafael Then, Jr. was found guilty of trafficking methamphetamine after selling drugs to an undercover officer on July 31, 2023, and he remains in custody at Marion County Jail pending sentencing set for 11 a.m. on September 24.

U.S. Rep. Randy Fine has proposed a bill to study turning Ocala National Forest and nearby springs into Florida Springs National Park—plans that aim to protect the region's water by limiting overdevelopment.

He will hold a press conference on August 25 to explain the idea, and the bill has been sent to the Committee on Natural Resources.

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.