Good morning, Ocala.

Belleview officials announced plans to upgrade a historic cemetery—one many residents criticized due to fallen and sunken tombstones dating from before the Civil War.

The project will begin soon to restore the site's appearance and preserve its historical value.

The Mary Sue Rich Community Center is hosting the free Rec It night on Friday, October 17 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Families can enjoy games and activities led by local Parks staff and another event is set for November 21.

Two free events will help Ocala residents learn about affordable homeownership and energy-saving improvements.

Habitat for Humanity of Marion County will host a session on Oct 23 at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center (5:30–7:30 p.m.) while the Central Florida Community Action Agency will hold a weatherization day on Oct 30 at Upper Room Ministries (10 a.m.–2 p.m.) where eligible attendees may receive a $50 gas gift card and a chance to win a generator.

The Marion County Public Headquarters-Ocala main phone line was spoofed by parties possibly seeking personal data from callers — an issue that led to complaints from frustrated citizens around Sept.

30 — according to Library Community Liaison Karen Jensen.

This week’s Horse Capital TV will feature Abigail Asiatico and her horse Champion Gateau— a distinguished American Saddlebred that has competed on the US World Cup team and will be seen at the Ocala International Horse Show.

In Marion County, each public middle and high school has a room stocked with free school supplies, clothing, shoes, and other essentials from the Rock Program started in 2017 by Rondo Fernandez.

The program has helped more than 9,000 students—supports 24 schools across three counties—and plans to expand with a mobile unit called the Rolling Rock for schools with little space.

A landowner is planning to redevelop the Pine Village Manufactured Home Park in Belleview by replacing 12 aging structures with up to 36 new lots—enhancing amenities and extending SE 102nd Loop through the site.

The plan was first submitted in May and discussed on October 13, and it will undergo further review by the Planning and Zoning Commission before the county commissioners make a final decision.

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.

KennaDee Acoustic Live

11:30 AM – 2:30 PM — Midtown Station — Free entry — Experience the best of acoustic pop, rock, and soul with a mix of original songs and creative covers.

Loomis Bros. Circus

November 3-4 — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion SELP — Adults $30, Children $8 — Experience a traditional circus filled with athleticism, animals, and nostalgia for the whole family.

November USEA Horse Trials

November 8-9 — Majestic Oaks Ocala — Entry fees apply — Witness thrilling equestrian competition across three phases at this prestigious horse trials event.

2025 Ocali Country Days Festival

9 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Silver River Museum & Environmental Education Center — $10 per person, children 5 and under FREE — Experience Florida’s history with live music, crafts, and delicious food.

2025 Ocala November Show Series II: National Hunter/Level 6 Jumper

12:00 AM - 11:59 PM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free entry — Enjoy two weeks of exciting National Hunter and Level 6 Jumper competitions.

HSITP 2025 Championship Show

1 PM - 10 PM — Covered Arena at The Grand Oaks Resort — Entry fees apply — Compete for year-end awards in a thrilling equestrian championship event.