Eleven officers and a new police chaplain were sworn in this week by Mayor Ben Marciano, while three longtime members of Ocala PD earned well-deserved promotions.
The City of Ocala will soon expand its popular skate park with more than 6,000 square feet of new space, including a competition bowl, beginner and intermediate areas, and a snake run. A groundbreaking ceremony is set for Thursday, Aug. 28, at 9:15 a.m. at the Ocala Skate Park, 517 NE Ninth St. The project, managed by Platform Group, LLC, is expected to be completed by February 2026.
The College of Central Florida received a $70,000 grant to assist students who may not qualify for financial aid.
Ocala’s Crime Stoppers has identified six new fugitives, all wanted on felony charges ranging from grand theft to drug trafficking. Authorities are asking for the public’s help in locating them.
The North Central Florida Outdoor Expo packed the World Equestrian Center with thousands of attendees, 150+ vendors, hands-on activities and family-friendly fun celebrating the region’s outdoor lifestyle.
Citrus County Fire and Rescue responded to a structure fire Aug. 16 in Inverness.
The Orange Blossom Gardens Lions Club Inaugural District 35-O Golf Tournament to raise money for disaster relief initiatives is scheduled for Oct. 4.
Ocala can expect a mix of sun and storm chances through the work week, with highs around 90–92 °F and scattered afternoon thunderstorms likely midweek and later.
HCA Florida Ocala Hospital welcomed 60 new doctors who are starting residencies and fellowships in one of seven in-demand specialties.
The Ocala City Council will vote at the Aug. 19 meeting on the redevelopment agreement for Project Hometown, the Downtown Ocala Marriott AC, between the City of Ocala and Domach, LLC. Council will also vote on parking agreement for the Downtown Ocala Marriott AC for the dedicated parking spaces in City Parking Garate No. 2, that will number 225.