Community Giveback Scheduled for Saturday

Marion County organizations are preparing for this weekend's Back-to-School Community Giveback, with volunteers expected to distribute backpacks, school supplies, and educational resources to families throughout the county.

The annual event helps students begin the new school year with the classroom essentials they need while connecting families with local community services.

Final Week of Free Admission at Appleton Museum

Residents have one more week to enjoy free admission at the Appleton Museum of Art.

The month-long promotion celebrates America's 250th anniversary and offers visitors the opportunity to experience permanent collections, special exhibitions, and educational programming at no charge.

Emergency Management Encourages Hurricane Preparedness

Marion County Emergency Management is reminding residents that now is an ideal time to prepare for potential tropical weather.

Officials recommend reviewing family emergency plans, assembling disaster supply kits, confirming evacuation information, and staying informed through trusted weather and emergency information sources.

School Supply Drive Continues

The Mission: Bus Brigade – Supply Their Success campaign continues collecting donations for Marion County students.

Backpacks, notebooks, binders, pencils, crayons, calculators, and other classroom supplies will be distributed through Marion County Public Schools' Families in Transition program to students experiencing homelessness or financial hardship.

Busy Weekend Ahead for Downtown Ocala

Downtown Ocala is preparing for another active summer weekend as residents and visitors explore local restaurants, shops, museums, and entertainment venues.

City leaders continue encouraging residents to support local businesses while enjoying everything the historic downtown district has to offer.

Schools Continue Preparing for Opening Day

Marion County Public Schools continue preparations for the upcoming school year as teachers, administrators, and support staff get classrooms ready for students.

District officials are finalizing transportation schedules, completing campus maintenance projects, and filling remaining employment openings before classes begin next month.

Utility Crews Continue Summer Reliability Projects

Ocala Electric Utility crews remain busy completing maintenance and infrastructure improvements across the city.

The work is designed to improve electric reliability during the summer storm season. Residents are encouraged to review hurricane preparedness plans and report outages promptly should severe weather develop.

School Supply Drive Nears Final Week

The Mission: Bus Brigade – Supply Their Success campaign continues collecting school supplies for Marion County students.

Donations of backpacks, notebooks, folders, pencils, calculators, and other classroom items will benefit students experiencing homelessness or financial hardship through Marion County Public Schools' Families in Transition program.

Downtown Ocala Readies for Busy Weekend

Businesses throughout downtown Ocala are preparing for increased activity heading into the weekend.

Restaurants, retailers, and entertainment venues continue to welcome residents and visitors, while community leaders point to ongoing investment and redevelopment as key drivers of downtown's continued growth.

Free Admission Continues at Appleton Museum

The Appleton Museum of Art continues offering free admission through the month of July as part of its America 250 celebration.

Visitors can enjoy permanent collections, special exhibitions, and family-friendly activities throughout the museum's regular operating hours.

County Staff Begin Work Following Commission Meeting

Marion County staff are moving forward with projects and initiatives following Tuesday's meeting of the Board of County Commissioners.

Actions taken during the meeting included budget-related items, public hearings, and updates affecting county services. County departments will now begin implementing approved measures as planning continues for the upcoming fiscal year.

Back-to-School Tax Holiday Continues

Florida families continue to benefit from the state's Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, which remains in effect through August 20.

Eligible purchases include many school supplies, clothing, shoes, instructional materials, and certain computers and accessories, providing savings as the new school year approaches.

Bus Brigade School Supply Drive Underway

Marion County's annual Mission: Bus Brigade – Supply Their Success campaign continues throughout July.

County employees and community members are collecting school supplies to support Marion County Public Schools' Families in Transition program, helping students experiencing homelessness or financial hardship begin the school year with the supplies they need.

Appleton Museum Welcomes Visitors with Free Admission

The Appleton Museum of Art continues its month-long free admission program during July in celebration of America's 250th anniversary.

Guests are invited to experience permanent collections, rotating exhibits, and educational programming throughout the month.

Marion County Reads Programs Continue

The Marion County Public Library System continues offering Marion County Reads activities at library locations throughout the county.

Programs include story times, children's activities, technology assistance, book discussions, and educational events designed to encourage lifelong reading and learning.

County Commissioners Meet Today

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners convenes this morning with a full agenda that includes budget amendments, public hearings, and several presentations.

Among the scheduled items are a presentation from the Lotus Marion Sexual Assault Center, recognition of National Arts in Health Day, and hearings involving the Housing Finance Authority and county special assessments.

Back-to-School Tax Holiday Underway

Florida shoppers can now save on eligible school-related purchases as the state's Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday begins.

The tax exemption runs through August 20 and includes qualifying clothing, footwear, school supplies, learning aids, and certain computers and accessories, helping families prepare for the new school year.

Volunteers Needed for Community Giveback

Organizers are seeking additional volunteers for Marion County's Back-to-School Community Giveback scheduled for Saturday, July 25.

The annual event will distribute backpacks, school supplies, and community resources to students and families at seven locations across the county.

Marion County Reads Continues

Summer reading activities continue today at Marion County Public Library branches.

Programs include story times, educational activities, gardening classes, technology assistance, and special events for children, teens, and adults as part of the Marion County Reads initiative.

Ocala City Council Meets This Afternoon

The Ocala City Council is scheduled to meet this afternoon following a Community Redevelopment Agency meeting.

Council members are expected to receive departmental reports from Ocala Police

Today Is Voter Registration Deadline

Today marks the deadline for Marion County residents to register to vote or change their political party affiliation for Florida's August Primary Election.

Election officials encourage anyone who has recently moved or needs to update their voter information to complete the process before today's deadline.

Development Review Committee Meets

The Marion County Development Review Committee is scheduled to meet this morning to review development proposals from across the county.

Committee members evaluate infrastructure, transportation, utilities, and land-use compatibility before projects advance through the county's planning process.

Public Safety Council Holds Regular Meeting

The Marion County Public Safety Coordinating Council meets this afternoon to discuss issues affecting the local criminal justice system.

Representatives from law enforcement, the judiciary, corrections, and community agencies will review current initiatives and opportunities to improve public safety and coordination among agencies.

Summer Reading Programs Continue

Marion County Public Library branches continue hosting Marion County Reads activities today.

The summer program includes children's story times, educational presentations, family activities, and reading challenges designed to keep students engaged while school is out.

County Commission Meeting Scheduled for Tuesday

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners returns to regular session Tuesday morning.

Commissioners are expected to consider budget amendments, zoning requests, emergency services funding,

School Board Approves Belleview Elementary Project

The Marion County School Board has approved a construction contract for improvements at Belleview Elementary School.

Board members also discussed project oversight and transparency as the district continues investing in school facilities before students return to classrooms next month.

Voter Registration Deadline Approaching

Marion County election officials are reminding residents that Monday, July 20, is the deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation for Florida's Primary Election.

Residents can verify or update their voter registration through the Marion County Supervisor of Elections before the deadline.

Bus Brigade Collecting School Supplies

The annual Bus Brigade School Supply Drive continues across Marion County.

Residents are encouraged to donate backpacks, notebooks, pencils, crayons, and other classroom supplies at participating collection sites. The donations will help local students begin the new school year with the supplies they need.

First Friday Art Walk Seeks Artists

Ocala Main Street is accepting artist applications for the upcoming First Friday Art Walk season.

The monthly downtown event features local artists, live entertainment, food vendors, and family activities, providing an opportunity for artists and businesses to connect with the community.

Marion County Continues Budget Planning

Marion County officials continue work on the county's budget as department leaders review funding requests and priorities for the upcoming fiscal year.

County administrators are focusing on public safety, transportation improvements, capital projects, and infrastructure needs while preparing a balanced budget for the year ahead.

Sheriff's Office Warns Residents About Scams

The Marion County Sheriff's Office is encouraging residents to remain vigilant after receiving reports of scam calls and fraudulent messages targeting local residents.

Deputies remind the public that scammers often impersonate law enforcement agencies, government offices, or utility companies in an attempt to obtain personal information or payments. Residents are encouraged to verify unexpected requests before responding.

Art in the Attic Continues in Downtown Ocala

The Marion Cultural Alliance's Art in the Attic fundraiser continues this week at Brick City Center for the Arts.

The annual event features hundreds of donated works of art, photography, sculptures, prints, and home décor offered at affordable prices. Proceeds support local artists, exhibitions, and arts education throughout Marion County.

Appleton Museum Offers Free Admission Throughout July

The Appleton Museum of Art continues its Stars, Stripes and Art promotion with free admission throughout the month of July.

Visitors can enjoy permanent collections, rotating exhibits, and special programming celebrating America's 250th anniversary.

Summer Library Programs Continue

The Marion County Public Library System continues offering educational and family-friendly activities throughout the summer.

Today's schedule includes story times, technology assistance, craft programs, and Marion County Reads events designed for children, teens, and adults across the county.

Emergency Preparedness Planning Continues

Marion County emergency management officials and community partners are meeting today as part of the county's Local Mitigation Strategy planning process.

The working group is reviewing disaster preparedness plans, hazard mitigation projects, and emergency response priorities designed to strengthen Marion County's resilience during hurricane season and other natural disasters.

Housing Finance Authority Meets Today

The Housing Finance Authority of Marion County is holding its regular meeting today to discuss affordable housing programs and financing initiatives.

Officials continue exploring opportunities to expand housing availability for residents while supporting long-term community development throughout Marion County.

Art in the Attic Sale Continues

The Marion Cultural Alliance's annual Art in the Attic fundraiser continues through July 25 at the Brick City Center for the Arts in downtown Ocala.

The sale features hundreds of donated works of art, prints, sculptures, photography, and home décor offered at affordable prices. Proceeds benefit local arts education, exhibitions, and cultural programming.

Appleton Museum Offers Free Admission in July

The Appleton Museum of Art is welcoming visitors with free general admission throughout July in celebration of America's 250th anniversary.

Guests can tour the museum's permanent collection, rotating exhibitions, outdoor sculptures, and family activity spaces at no charge during the month-long promotion.

Marion County Reads Continues

The Marion County Public Library System continues its Marion County Reads program with story times, book discussions, technology assistance, and educational activities at library branches throughout the county.

The summer initiative encourages reading and lifelong learning while providing free programs for children, teens, and adults.

County Budget Workshops Begin Today

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners begins a series of budget workshops today focused on the county's financial outlook.

Commissioners will discuss the potential impact of proposed changes to Florida's property tax system and how those changes could affect county services, infrastructure projects, and future budgets. Additional workshops are scheduled throughout the week.

Ready for Success Initiative Awards More Than $65,000

The Community Foundation for Ocala and Marion County is distributing more than $65,000 to four local nonprofit organizations through its Ready for Success initiative.

The grants will support programs that help students prepare for the upcoming school year by providing school supplies, educational resources, and assistance to families facing financial challenges. Beneficiaries include the Marion County Children's Alliance, Marion County Public Schools Families in Transition, Stuff the Bus, and The Rock Program.

Art in the Attic Returns to Downtown Ocala

The Marion Cultural Alliance is preparing for another edition of its popular Art in the Attic fundraiser.

The annual sale features donated artwork, antiques, home décor, and unique collectibles. A VIP shopping event precedes the public sale, with proceeds benefiting local arts education and cultural programs throughout Marion County.

Bus Brigade Collecting School Supplies

Marion County's annual Bus Brigade School Supply Drive is underway as community organizations collect donations for local students.

Residents are encouraged to donate backpacks, notebooks, pencils, crayons, and other classroom essentials at participating collection sites before the start of the new school year.

Registration Continues for Youth Recreation Programs

The Ocala Recreation and Parks Department is continuing registration for youth sports leagues and late-summer recreation activities.

Programs include basketball, soccer, tennis, and other recreational opportunities for children of all ages. Officials encourage families to register early, as enrollment is expected to fill quickly before the new school year begins.

Marion County Reviews Growth and Development Plans

Marion County officials are continuing work on proposed updates to the county's Land Development Code following this week's public hearings.

County leaders say the proposed changes are intended to guide future growth, improve development standards, and help preserve the character of existing neighborhoods while supporting Marion County's expanding population.

Fire Rescue Reminds Residents About Summer Storm Safety

Marion County Fire Rescue is encouraging residents to remain weather aware during the peak of Florida's thunderstorm season.

Officials remind residents that lightning can strike well before heavy rain arrives and recommend moving indoors immediately whenever thunder is heard. Summer storms can also produce strong wind gusts and localized flooding.

CF Registration Continues

The College of Central Florida continues enrolling students for upcoming Summer B and Fall semester classes.

Students are encouraged to complete admissions, financial aid, and course registration early to ensure the best selection of classes before the new academic term begins.

Summer Feeding Program Continues Across Marion County

Marion County Public Schools continues providing free breakfasts and lunches to children and teens through its Summer Feeding Program.

Meals are available at more than 50 locations throughout Marion County for anyone ages 1 through 18. No registration, paperwork, or proof of income is required.

Recreation Programs Continue Registration

The Ocala Recreation and Parks Department is continuing registration for youth sports, fitness classes, and late-summer recreation programs.

Officials encourage families to register early, as several activities begin later this month and enrollment is expected to fill quickly.

County Leaders Continue Focus on Growth and Infrastructure

Marion County officials are moving forward with several initiatives discussed during this week's Board of County Commissioners meeting.

Transportation improvements, infrastructure investments, and growth management remain among the county's highest priorities as officials continue planning for one of Florida's fastest-growing regions.

Fire Rescue Reminds Residents About Lightning Safety

Marion County Fire Rescue is urging residents to take summer thunderstorms seriously following a recent lightning strike that caused an attic fire in Marion Oaks.

Firefighters responded quickly and prevented the fire from spreading, and no injuries were reported. Officials remind residents that lightning can strike well ahead of approaching storms and encourage everyone to move indoors when thunder is heard.

College of Central Florida Continues Registration

The College of Central Florida is continuing enrollment for Summer B and Fall semester classes.

Students are encouraged to complete admissions requirements, apply for financial aid, and meet with academic advisors to ensure they can register for preferred courses before classes begin.

Recreation Department Accepting Program Registrations

The City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department is accepting registrations for youth sports leagues, fitness classes, and late-summer recreation programs.

Officials say several programs are expected to fill quickly as families prepare for the upcoming school year.

Appleton Museum Offers Summer Activities

The Appleton Museum of Art continues welcoming visitors with seasonal exhibits, educational programs, and family-friendly activities.

Museum officials say the summer schedule includes guided tours, interactive learning experiences, and opportunities for visitors of all ages to explore art and history.

Marion County Commissioners Meet Today

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners is holding its regular meeting today at the McPherson Governmental Campus.

Commissioners are expected to consider a variety of issues affecting county residents, including transportation improvements, growth management, and a property nuisance case that could result in legal action.

Officials Urge Fire Safety Following Holiday Weekend

Following the Independence Day holiday, Marion County emergency officials are encouraging residents to safely dispose of fireworks debris and remain alert for potential fire hazards.

With dry conditions continuing across portions of Central Florida, residents are reminded to use caution when burning debris or operating equipment that could spark grass fires.

Marion County Reads Continues

The Marion County Public Library System continues its Marion County Reads summer program with events taking place throughout the county.

Activities include reading challenges, children's programs, technology workshops, and educational events for residents of all ages. The program continues throughout July.

Registration Continues for Youth Recreation Programs

The City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department is continuing registration for youth sports leagues and late-summer recreation activities.

Officials say basketball, soccer, tennis, and other youth programs will begin later this month. Families are encouraged to register early, as space is limited in several programs.

CF Registration Continues for Upcoming Semester

The College of Central Florida is continuing enrollment for upcoming summer and fall classes.

College officials encourage prospective and returning students to complete registration, financial aid applications, and advising appointments as early as possible to ensure the best selection of classes.

Development Review Committee Meets Today

Marion County's Development Review Committee is meeting today to consider several residential and commercial development proposals.

County officials will review site plans and infrastructure improvements associated with continued growth throughout Marion County. The committee's recommendations help guide future development before projects move through the approval process.

County Commission Meeting Scheduled Tuesday

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners will hold its next regular meeting Tuesday morning at the McPherson Governmental Campus.

Commissioners are expected to discuss transportation projects, county infrastructure improvements, growth management, and other issues affecting residents throughout Marion County.

Marion County Reads Continues Throughout July

The Marion County Public Library System continues its Marion County Reads summer program with activities taking place at every library location.

Residents can participate in reading challenges, children's story times, educational workshops, technology assistance, and community programs designed to encourage literacy and lifelong learning.

Summer Camps Continue Across the County

Marion County Parks and Recreation continues offering a wide variety of summer camps and youth activities.

Programs include sports, outdoor recreation, environmental education, and enrichment opportunities designed to keep students active while school is out for the summer.

Registration Continues for Youth Sports Programs

The Ocala Recreation and Parks Department is continuing registration for several youth sports leagues and late-summer recreation programs.

Officials say programs include basketball, soccer, tennis, and a variety of instructional activities for children of all ages. Families are encouraged to register early, as many programs are expected to reach capacity before the start of the new school year.

Holiday Travel Picks Up Across Central Florida

The Independence Day holiday travel period is underway, and law enforcement agencies are expecting one of the busiest travel weekends of the summer.

The Florida Highway Patrol has increased enforcement on major highways and is reminding drivers to wear seat belts, avoid distracted driving, obey speed limits, and never drive under the influence. Motorists should expect heavier traffic throughout the weekend.

Fourth in the Park Ready for Saturday

The City of Ocala is preparing to welcome thousands of residents to Fourth in the Park on Saturday at Tuscawilla Park.

The free celebration will feature live entertainment, food vendors, children's activities, community exhibits, and patriotic programming in honor of Independence Day and America's 250th birthday. City officials encourage attendees to arrive early and review parking information before the event.

Sheriff's Office Summer Food Drive Continues

The Marion County Sheriff's Office is continuing its Buy One, Give One Summer Food Drive through July 15.

Residents are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items at participating collection sites throughout the county. The donations will help local families and food pantries during the summer months.

Downtown Parking Garage Now Open

Visitors to downtown Ocala now have additional parking options with the opening of the city's new parking garage.

The facility provides more than 400 public parking spaces and is expected to improve access to downtown shopping, dining, entertainment, and community events.

Holiday Weekend Offers Plenty of Local Activities

Residents and visitors will find a wide variety of events taking place throughout Marion County over the Independence Day weekend.

From parks and museums to springs, family attractions, and America 250 celebrations, local tourism officials encourage everyone to explore the many activities available across the community.

America 250 Celebration Continues in Ocala

Ocala Main Street continues its week-long America 250 Celebration with an educational exhibit at Tuscawilla Park recognizing the nation's upcoming 250th birthday.

The exhibit features historical displays, interactive information, and local contributions to the national celebration. Organizers say the exhibit will remain open through the Independence Day holiday.

Sheriff's Office Urges Residents to Stay Alert

The Marion County Sheriff's Office is reminding residents to remain vigilant following recent burglary and home invasion investigations.

Deputies encourage homeowners to lock doors and vehicles, secure valuables, and report suspicious activity immediately. Investigators continue to seek information that could help solve several recent cases.

College of Central Florida Continues Summer and Fall Registration

The College of Central Florida is continuing enrollment for upcoming classes.

Officials encourage prospective students to complete registration, financial aid applications, and advising appointments as the college prepares for its next academic sessions.

Marion County Participates in America 250 Activities

Marion County is joining communities across the nation in celebrating America's upcoming 250th anniversary.

County leaders are encouraging residents to participate in patriotic events, educational programs, and community activities taking place throughout the Independence Day holiday period.

Holiday Travel Expected to Increase

The Independence Day travel period begins in earnest this week, and Florida transportation officials expect increased traffic across Central Florida.

Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, avoid distracted driving, and make safety a priority throughout the holiday weekend.

Investigation Underway Following Citra House Fire

Marion County Fire Rescue and the State Fire Marshal's Office are investigating a fatal residential fire that occurred Monday night in the Citra area.

Emergency crews responded to the scene where one adult victim was discovered inside the home. Officials have not released the victim's identity as investigators continue working to determine the cause of the fire.

Independence Day Celebrations Set Across Marion County

Communities throughout Marion County are preparing for Independence Day celebrations this weekend.

Local organizations and municipalities are hosting a variety of patriotic events, family activities, concerts, and community gatherings leading up to the Fourth of July holiday. Residents are encouraged to check schedules for event times and parking information before attending.

New Photography Exhibit Opens at Appleton Museum

The Appleton Museum of Art will debut a new exhibition featuring the work of photographer Randal Levenson beginning July 4.

The exhibit showcases decades of photography from across the United States and abroad and will remain on display throughout the summer. Museum officials say the exhibit offers visitors a unique perspective on landscapes, culture, and everyday life.

Summer Reading Activities Continue

The Marion County Public Library System continues its Marion County Reads summer program with activities at library branches throughout the county.

Programs include children's story times, reading challenges, technology assistance, educational workshops, and family activities designed to encourage literacy throughout the summer months.

FHP Urges Safe Holiday Travel

As the Independence Day holiday approaches, the Florida Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to plan ahead for increased traffic.

Troopers encourage motorists to wear seat belts, avoid distractions, obey speed limits, and designate a sober driver if celebrating over the holiday weekend