Friday, September 26th, 2025
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 26th of September.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Marion County Animal Services features three adoptable pets — Barney is a two-year-old with a contagious smile, Lillian is a ten-month-old who greets visitors warmly, and Bo is a five-year-old who loves treats and playtime. Adoption fees are waived for anyone with a valid library card or an emergency preparedness plan — the shelter is open Tuesday through Saturday. WCJB
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Netflix released a trailer for a documentary about the fatal neighbor shooting of A.J. Owens, a mother of four, by Susan Lorincz in Ocala, and the film will debut on October 17 — following its Sundance directing award win. Ocala-News
- ➤ Parents at South Ocala Elementary said that a substitute teacher hit a student and used racial slurs on Tuesday—allegations that led the school to remove her from the subbing system—while law enforcement continues its investigation despite police reporting no physical injuries. FOX 35 Orlando
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is considering a new outpatient clinic and one potential site is at County Road 41 — U.S. Highway 301 in Marion County, which if selected would be 20 miles from the Ocala VA Clinic and offer primary and mental health care. The agency is also reviewing sites in Lake and Sumter counties to serve Florida veterans. Ocala-News
- ➤ Former city commissioner Jonie White warned at Wednesday night's budget meeting that Archer is losing the battle over finances and operations—she cited an outdated employee entrance code and weak deposit protocols as key issues—and raised concerns that have eroded residents' trust. State Rep. Chad Johnson observed the meeting, and city manager Deanna Alltop said improvements will be discussed at the next commission meeting. WCJB
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Castro Plaza, LLC and Austin International Realty have asked to amend an approved PUD at 6998 N US Highway 27 to boost dwelling units from 140 to 190 and expand commercial space near Golden Hills Center. Local officials will review the request soon—further details are expected. Ocala Gazette
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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.
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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.
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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.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
If you're not willing to be mocked, you're not going to do anything new.
~ Jeff Bezos
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