Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 8th of September.
Good morning, Ocala.
🏘️ Community
The annual Give4Marion campaign will run on Sept.
16—17 and invites residents and businesses to donate to over 111 nonprofits in Marion County, with early donations starting Sept. 9. Organizers aim to exceed last year’s $3 million total by offering matching gifts and Power Hours to boost community support.
A longtime Ocala resident, James Newland, said that plans to convert part of Ocala National Forest into a National Park will harm the local ecosystem and change a way of life he has enjoyed for over fifty years.
💼 Business
Niagara Bottling acquired Silver Springs Bottled Water Company in Ocala on September 3 for about $25,785,000.
The Ocala business, which has served the area for nearly 40 years, will keep producing water from a natural spring—ensuring a steady local supply.
🚨 Crime
Marion County sheriff’s deputies shot a man during a traffic stop and he died in the hospital.
A clinic at Marion County's sexual assault center in Ocala was certified today—showing its commitment to offer crisis support for survivors.
🏛️ Government
The United States Navy will test live and inert bombs today from 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Pinecastle Range Complex in the Ocala National Forest and will resume testing on Tuesday, September 9 and Wednesday, September 10 at the same time with additional tests on Thursday from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.—wildlife may be displaced during testing and nearby residents should secure outdoor items.
🏥 Health
Today, Ocala hosted its first Pedal for a Purpose ride+ a fundraiser to raise money and educate about Alzheimer’s disease.
Cyclists enjoyed biking and pancakes as support grew for research and advocacy, with the Walk to End Alzheimer’s scheduled for September 27.
🎉 Ocala Events
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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.
2025 Adult Spelling Bee
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Marion Theatre — Participant: $25, General Admission: FREE — Compete to be Ocala’s Smartest Speller and support local causes.
The Grass Roots Concert
5-8:30 p.m. — Circle Square Cultural Center — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy a lively performance with classic hits from the renowned Rock and Roll era.
Absolute Queen - A Tribute to Queen
7:30-9 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Tickets available — Experience the electrifying atmosphere of a live Queen concert with mind-blowing costume changes and all the classic hits.
Threads of Light - A New Requiem
3:00 – 4:30 PM — Reilly Arts Center — Ticket information not provided — Experience a world premiere by local composer Joshua L. Mazur with the Ocala Symphony and Chorus.
2025 Grand National Show
6 AM - 11 AM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Check for pricing — Experience the thrill of equestrian excellence at the Grand National Show.
Grand Prix Dining Experience
6:30-9 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Table pricing from $500 — Indulge in a three-course meal while enjoying top-level equestrian sport under the lights.
🏠 Ocala Real Estate
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💼 Ocala Job Board
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📣 Ocala Announcements
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