Good morning, Ocala.

BJ’s Wholesale Club will mark its 42nd anniversary with 42% off select items from Sept.

24 to Oct. 31 while a new Ocala club is set to open this fall (shoppers can use in-store, mobile app, curbside, and online options).

Over 3,100 readers in a USA TODAY Network-Florida poll voted 88% to change Publix’s rule that forces shoppers to buy two items for a BOGO deal, so Florida customers can enjoy a discount like in other states.

Some suggest giving extra items to neighbors + food pantries.

The Ocala Civic Theatre will host its second annual Set the Stage Gala on Oct.

8, offering a French-inspired dinner with a signature French 75, live musical performances and a curated silent auction. Seating is limited and service begins at 6 p.m. — black tie is optional.

Marion County officials will review grant funding requests for the World Equestrian Center’s 2027 Winter Series tomorrow at 9 a.m. at the Ocala and Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau, with the series projected to generate $23 million in economic impact and thousands of hotel room nights.

Marion County School Board discussed the future of Wyomina Park Elementary after holding two community feedback meetings where parents and residents shared their views; the board will review these perspectives to decide its next steps.

The Ocala Gazette is hosting a four-week Q&A with school board candidates for seats four (Mike Mills and Brigitte Smith) and five (Donny Barber and Sarah James), where each answers weekly questions about plans to improve attendance and academic performance.

Responses will appear in order as received.

El Encanto Restaurant in Summerfield was temporarily closed after inspectors discovered four violations — including an expired license and sewage backup.

Follow-up inspections continue for other Marion County eateries from Sept. 14–20.

Marion County health officials confirmed that a bobcat killed in Rainbow Park on Sept.

15 tested positive for rabies (the fourth alert this year) and urged residents to avoid contact with wild animals.

Local high school football stats released through Week 5 show top performers from Dunnellon + Forest + Belleview among Marion County schools.

The report details passing, rushing, and receiving leaders as district play intensifies.

Ocala-area high schools are holding a vote for the midseason football player of the year with fans able to cast ballots until (11:59 p.m. Sept.

30); nominees include standout players from Belleview, Vanguard, Lake Weir, Forest and Dunnellon.