Marion County Commissioner Carl Zalak updates the latest on Marion County's residents' updates, recreational opportunities, and safety warnings.
Commissioners will be holding four public "State of the County" events to update residents on the economy, penny sales tax and legislative initiatives. The first is at the Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top Of The Word on Friday July 8th. All of the dates and times are at MarionFL.org/soc, or call 352-438-2323.
July is National Parks and Recreation month, and the county has special programs for kids at parks throughout the county. The county is encouraging residents to bring donations of non-perishables to Interfaith Services (in Reddick) in lieu of paid entry fees.
Marion County continues efforts to reduce littering, which is an ongoing substantial problem.
The free Children's Butterfly Workshop is Saturday 8-9am at the Garden Spot. Info at 352-301-7020. And the Grandpa Jones Candy Shop in Downtown Ocala has a $5 deal and a reduced ticket deal for children at the Marion Theater this summer.
County pools continue recreational opportunities and swimming lessons.
And the county is urging parents to protect children from on-line predators. Privacy settings and parental controls are a must, and the county is working with the Sheriff's Office on educational programs for parents.
Summer heat makes vehicles a dangerous place. The county urges residents to be aware of leaving children, pets and older adults unattended in vehicles.