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.

A pumpkin candle lit and glowing in the foreground with a gnome and sign in the background.
Features
1 month ago
Defunct Ocala – Eerie Acres: Chiefland’s Once-Spooky Halloween Haven

Exploring the lost landmarks and attractions that shaped Marion County’s past.

Close-up of a police badge and metal handcuffs on a dark surface.
Crime & Safety
1 month ago
Deputies Arrest Four, Investigate $5,000 Burglary in Marion County

Marion County deputies made multiple arrests on drug and warrant charges and launched a $5,000 burglary investigation during a series of recent incidents across the county.

Wide shot of a little boy surrounded by corn, hay bales and pumpkins.
352 Fall Guide
1 month ago
Can’t-Miss Fall Festivals in Ocala and Marion County

Ocala comes alive this fall with a variety of festivals, from arts and music to family-friendly fun, seasonal treats and Oktoberfest celebrations.

Two performers stand together onstage during the show’s closing, smiling as the night winds down.
Entertainment
2 months ago
A Night of Laughter at the Joke Joint: Vince Taylor Headlines in Belleview

The Joke Joint in Belleview delivered a lively night of music, stand-up and headlining laughs, giving audiences an unpredictable yet unforgettable comedy experience.

Exterior view of a Spirit Halloween store with a bright sign above the entrance.
Local
2 months ago
Spooky Season Arrives: Spirit Halloween Opens in Ocala

Spirit Halloween has returned to Ocala with two locations, bringing costumes, décor and spooky thrills just in time for the season.

A professional woman in a black blazer works at a laptop in a bright office, with an open notebook and calculator on the desk, focused on her financial documents.
Ask The Expert
2 months ago
Character, Capacity and Capital in Business Lending

Business owners can improve their chances of securing financing by understanding how banks evaluate Character, Capacity, and Capital, preparing thorough financial records, and building strong relationships with lenders, says Cogent Bank President Nick Blaser.

Large group photo of the Ocala Roller Derby Pirates and Mermaids.
Community
2 months ago
Mermaids vs. Pirates: Ocala Roller Derby Brings Nautical Fun and Fierce Competition to Downtown 

The Ocala Downtown Market was transformed into a high-energy, pirate-and-mermaid-themed roller derby arena on Aug. 24 as fans cheered, costumes dazzled, and Ocala Roller Derby’s “Mermaids vs. Pirates” scrimmage delivered both thrilling athletic action and community spirit.

A colorful, retro-style poster with swirling orange, yellow, green, and teal patterns featuring a yellow submarine. The text reads: “Ira Holmes International Film Series, When I’m 64, Anniversary Celebration Season.”
Entertainment
2 months ago
Strawberry Fields of Film: CF Ira Holmes International Film Series Launches ‘When I’m 64’ Season

The CF Ira Holmes International Film Series launches its 64th season with a Beatles-inspired “When I’m 64” lineup of films, talks and special events.

Close-up of a police badge and metal handcuffs on a dark surface.
Crime & Safety
2 months ago
Drugs, Weapons and Batteries Lead to String of Arrests in Marion County

Marion County deputies made multiple arrests in separate cases last week involving drugs, suspended licenses, batteries and illegal weapons, according to the sheriff’s office.

Two lovebugs with black wings and red thoraxes are attached while mating on top of bright yellow flowers.
Features
2 months ago
Debunked Ocala: Did UF Really Create Lovebugs?

Florida’s twice-yearly swarms of lovebugs have long fueled a myth that they were created in a University of Florida lab, but experts confirm the insects migrated naturally from Central America decades before genetic engineering was possible.