Good morning, Ocala.

Wings of Faith Fellowship Church has moved its food distribution events to Rotary Sportsplex Park after increased demand outgrew its neighborhood location—partners include Second Harvest Food Bank, His Compassion Food Bank and Operation Compassion.

Rev. Edwin Quintana joined volunteers as the outreach provided food to local families and will continue to support the community.

Construction is underway on a new Baskin-Robbins ice cream shop at 2708 SW College Road in southwest Ocala — the new store will be solely occupied by the brand, unlike the current location which shares space with Dunkin’.

The project is owned by Shaira and Manish Patel through Manella Patel, LLC and received building permits in June, July, and early September, though an opening date has not been announced.

Marion County installed its second Safe Haven Baby Box at Fire Station No. 2 in Citra—dedicated during a blessing ceremony held at 11 a.m. Monday.

The box gives parents in crisis a safe way to surrender their infants and adds to the statewide network that supports newborn safety.

Marion County Fire Rescue held blessing ceremonies on Monday at Citra Fire Station #2 at 11 a.m. and at Bronson Fire Rescue Station #655 at 4 p.m.—new Safe Haven baby boxes were installed under Florida’s Safe Haven Law following Ocala’s 2020 start.

Advocates said they hoped the move would reduce illegal abandonments.

The Marion County Hospital District held its meeting on September 29 as captured in a video by Bruce Ackerman from the Ocala Gazette—official updates were shared.

An Ocala resident writes a letter urging citizens to learn about local issues and vote to shape a better future, noting that only 33% support County Commissioners and 12% support the mayor.

The letter calls on residents to put down their cellphones—get active in community affairs—and make their voices heard at the polls.

The Wall-Rives American Legion Post #58 in Dunnellon is asking Marion County for a special use permit to hold a monthly flea market and seasonal military remembrance events at 10730 S U.S. Highway 41.

The county’s Planning and Zoning Commission will review the request on Monday at 5:30 p.m.—the proposal follows a March code violation for operating without a permit.

Sixteen high school athletes are nominated for Marion County Athlete of the Week and local readers can vote until Friday at noon.

Nominees include standout performers from football, volleyball, and golf — their highlight videos will be displayed to show their skills.

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.

4th Annual Grays Halloween Festival

5-10 p.m. — Ocala Downtown Market — Free entry — Celebrate the Halloween season with fun festivities at this community festival.

Back to the 80's: Dance Fitness Party

1-5 p.m. — Paddock Mall — Donation-based entry — Get your groove on while raising awareness and funds for breast cancer prevention.

Hands-on Volunteer Training for October Ride-a-Test

8:00 AM – 11:59 PM — Florida Horse Park — Free entry — Learn valuable skills while supporting an equestrian event through volunteer opportunities.

Tropical Steel Music Event

6:00–9:30 p.m. — Yellow Pony at World Equestrian Center — Check event page for costs — Enjoy dinner and drinks while grooving to the versatile sounds of Tropical Steel.

Ocala Classic Card Show

10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Hilton Ocala — $5 admission, kids 10 & under free — Discover rare sports cards and collectibles while enjoying family-friendly activities and raffles.