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Ocala
Monday, March 18, 2024

Ocala Recreation and Parks Department to debut new mascot in July

The Ocala Recreation and Parks Department will debut its new mascot, Rex the Squirrel, during National Parks and Recreation Month in July.

The upcoming month-long celebration will highlight the impact of parks and recreation within the community, and it will include the unveiling of the city’s new mascot. Rex the Squirrel was created for the City of Ocala and will make his official debut on Friday, July 1 on the Ocala Recreation and Parks Department Facebook webpage.

Preston Pooser, Ocala Recreation and Parks Director, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Rex to the Ocala Rec and Parks team. Rex will be a great ambassador to our department while providing an opportunity to interact with children, tweens, and adults.”

The community is invited to attend Rex’s Birthday Bash on Wednesday, July 20, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Tuscawilla Park located at 800 NE Sanchez Avenue. This family-friendly event will feature outdoor activities, face painting, free cupcakes, and ice cream provided by the Ocala Police Department’s Polar Patrol.

Rex will make appearances throughout the Birthday Bash to interact with attendees and take photos.

National Parks and Recreation Month is an opportunity to showcase park staff, the city’s park systems, and the variety of activities and programs that are provided to the local community.

Throughout the month of July, the Ocala Recreation and Parks Department encourages residents and visitors to share stories and pictures of how recreation and parks have impacted their lives with the hashtag #OcalaRecPark.

For more information, visit the Ocala Recreation and Parks Department webpage or call 352-368-5517.