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Ashley Brace

Ashley is a student at the College of Central Florida and Editor-In-Chief of The Patriot Press, with experience in journalism, media and student leadership.

Children with backpacks stand near a yellow school bus on the first day of school.
Back to School in the 352
1 month ago
Back-to-School Events in the 352 to Get Ready for the New School Year

From free backpacks and school supplies to health screenings, family activities and community resources, North Central Florida is gearing up for the new school year with a variety of back-to-school events.

A board with flyers in it stands in playground with and open field, paved pathway and trees around it.
Back to School in the 352
1 month ago
After the Bell: After-School Programs and Activities for Families and Students in the 352

From tutoring and mentorship to recreation and youth development, these local after-school programs give students a safe place to learn, play and grow after the school day ends.

A close-up of three ice cream cones, mine chocolate chip on the left, vanilla in the middle, and strawberry on the right.
Food & Drink
2 months ago
Haagen-Dazs to Celebrate First Ocala Location with Grand Opening, Free Ice Cream

Haagen-Dazs is officially bringing its premium ice cream to downtown Ocala with the grand opening of its first local shop on July 30.

the forge food and dining ocala florida
Food & Drink
2 months ago
Multi-Restaurant and Entertainment Concept The Forge Begins Soft Opening in Midtown Ocala

The Forge has officially entered its soft opening phase, with six restaurant concepts now open and additional businesses planned in the coming weeks and months.

Firefighters work to extinguish the flames of a large commercial building.
Crime & Safety
2 months ago
Three-Alarm Fire Damages Commercial Building in Weirsdale

A three-alarm commercial fire heavily damaged a 25,000-square-foot building in Weirsdale early Sunday morning, prompting a large multi-agency response.

Restaurant exterior with brick walls and large red sign reading 'The New Wolfy's' near a sidewalk and palm trees.
Food & Drink
2 months ago
New Wolfy’s Reopens in East Ocala with Renovated Space, New Menu and Familiar Hospitality

One of Ocala’s most recognizable restaurants has reopened under new ownership.

A man with short dark hair and a mustache in an orange and white striped jumpsuit.
Crime & Safety
2 months ago
Boxing Coach Arrested on Child Sex Abuse Charges in Marion County

A Marion County boxing coach has been arrested on multiple felony charges after investigators say he sexually abused a juvenile student over several months.

A man in a white shirt gestures toward a colorful painting of a saxophone player on a gallery wall while speaking with a woman. Around them, several vibrant artworks are displayed, including a painting of a violinist under a tree and abstract pieces with musical themes. A blue ribbon labeled "1st Place" hangs beside one of the paintings, indicating award recognition. Other attendees are partially visible in the foreground.
Entertainment
2 months ago
Marion Cultural Alliance’s ‘Art in the Attic’ Returns with VIP Shopping Event and Two-Week Public Sale

From original artwork and vintage treasures to handmade creations and creative supplies, Marion Cultural Alliance’s annual Art in the Attic yART Sale returns to downtown Ocala this July.

elder care florida metro creative
Health & Wellness
2 months ago
Senior Health Expos Return to Marion, Sumter and Lake Counties

From free health screenings and giveaways to Medicare information and wellness resources, Senior Health Expos are returning to Marion, Sumter and Lake counties with opportunities for older adults and caregivers to connect with local experts throughout 2026 and into 2027.

Smiling group of young men in PTSD Awareness Walk shirts pose in front of a crowd in Ocala.
Community
2 months ago
Marion County to Host Annual PTSD Awareness Walk in Ocala on Saturday

Marion County is encouraging residents to wear teal and take part in the annual PTSD Awareness Walk on Saturday at the McPherson Governmental Campus in Ocala.