Good morning, Ocala.

Pollinator parties brought together dozens from north Central Florida as families and scientists gathered at the Discovery Center to learn about native plants and count bees and butterflies — a free event open to all ages.

The Marion County Sheriff's Office is hosting a free women's self-defense course for participants ages 13+ next month at its Training Building at 692 NW 30th Ave. Sessions run on Sept.

8, 10, 15, and 17 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with registration available via email.

A Dunnellon resident wrote a letter on Aug.

22 urging Ocala to add more entertainment for children (skating rink, pitch and putt, indoor swimming, rock climbing, arcade, bumper cars, and a water park) as current options like Sky Zone and Easy Street have become outdated.

Ocala Fire Rescue crews responded Saturday to two homes in Ocala that were damaged by severe storms after trees + power lines fell.

The department is assessing the damage and advising residents to take safety precautions.

Gilligan Racing LLC and attorney John Morgan announced plans to build a world-class Thoroughbred racing facility in Marion County * they are evaluating multiple sites and will work with local officials and equine industry leaders to boost infrastructure and create jobs.

A partial lunar eclipse will occur Aug.

27-28 in local skies, with Earth's shadow covering nearly 94% of the moon and a peak shortly after midnight that may give it a blood moon appearance. Clear viewing away from city lights is encouraged.

Forest defeated North Marion 15-6 on Aug.

21 in a season opener marked by penalties and cramps, with standout plays by senior quarterback Caleb Sanford and running back Keziyrehun Rivers. Forest will play Gainesville Eastside on Aug. 27 while North Marion meets Trinity Catholic on Aug. 28.