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.

An individual standing in a blurred background with their arms behind their back, handcuffed.
Crime & Safety
2 months ago
Multiple arrests made across Marion County for theft, road rage, drug trafficking and DUI

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office responded to a range of incidents this week, including a lottery ticket theft, false police impersonation, drug seizures, and a $13,000 residential burglary investigation.

A reenactment scene at a Six Gun Territory event shows people in pioneer-era costumes gathered near a canvas tent and wooden benches. A QR code sign invites attendees to join a Facebook group, and a wooden sign directs visitors to “KirbyFarm.com.” An American flag stands nearby, and families watch the activity from the background.
Entertainment
2 months ago
Defunct Ocala: Revived – Six Gun Territory rides again at Kirby Family Farm

The Wild West Weekend serves as a tribute to the original Six Gun Territory, which operated in Ocala from 1963 to 1984.

The entrance to Six Gun Territory. A steam locomotive sits on a piece of train track with a sign that reads "Ride the Train or Sky Ride to Six Gun Territory." Trees and a mountain landscape sit behind the train in the background while a small portion of fence sits in the foreground.
Features
2 months ago
Defunct Ocala: Six Gun Territory, Ocala’s lost frontier fantasy

Once hailed as Florida’s answer to the Wild West, Six Gun Territory opened in 1963 just east of Ocala and quickly became one of the state’s most beloved tourist attractions.

An array of pop-up tents and canopies line SE 3rd Street in Downtown Ocala selling an array of homemade goods.
Entertainment
2 months ago
Ocala Downtown Market offers weekly blend of local goods and community spirit

The Ocala Downtown Market is more than just a place to shop—it’s where community, culture, and commerce come together every weekend. From handcrafted jewelry and fresh produce to local food favorites like Grandpa’s Grove pretzels and Jerusalem Street Food’s famous pita chips, the market captures the heart of Ocala’s vibrant downtown.

Florida Highway Patrol cruiser parked at night with emergency lights on
Local
2 months ago
Belleview man killed in early morning motorcycle crash on CR 25

FHP says Ocklawaha driver rear-ended motorcycle near SE 108th Terrace Road; crash under investigation.

A wide view of the Ocala Jai-Alai building shows a large beige structure with colorful signage and satellite dishes on the lawn. The front area is overgrown with patches of grass and scattered debris, suggesting the site is no longer in active use.
Features
2 months ago
Defunct Ocala: Ocala Gainesville Poker & Jai Alai’s final bet

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

Firefighters stand near a ladder propped against the side of a Dunkin' Donuts building in Ocala, Florida, with a fire truck parked out front. One firefighter is climbing the ladder while another stands nearby among bushes.
Local
2 months ago
Firefighters quickly contain small fire at Ocala Dunkin’

Ocala Fire Rescue gave the all-clear after discovering the source was likely a light in the store’s exterior signage.

Smokey Bear stands next to reporter Ashley Brace, who is giving a thumbs up and smiling at the camera.
Local
2 months ago
Smokey Bear helps honor wildfire prevention at annual awards ceremony

Forest Service officials, firefighters, and librarians recognized at Marion County Public Library for advancing community education and reducing human-caused wildfires across Florida.

Aerial view of a partially constructed section of the Cross Florida Barge Canal cutting through forested land in central Florida.
Local
2 months ago
Defunct Ocala: Cross Florida Barge Canal left scars, stories, and a lasting legacy of ‘what ifs’

The ambitious project promised prosperity but ended in controversy, paving the way for today’s Cross Florida Greenway.

Firefighters from MCFR work to extract an individual from the overturned red SUV. The vehicle's side is crushed, and broken glass is visible as the responders use specialized tools to access the interior. The scene is lit by portable lights during nighttime rescue operations.
Local
2 months ago
Driver seriously injured after truck overturns in early morning Reddick crash

Marion County Fire Rescue crews used special tools to free the trapped driver after the pickup crashed through a fence and flipped upside down on West Highway 329.