Ben Baugh

Ben Baugh is a journalist who has worked across a variety of platforms during his career. A graduate of Ashland University in Ashland, Ohio, he has covered a variety of topics, including politics, public safety, education, religion, entertainment, equestrian sport and sports. Baugh has worked in Ohio, New York, South Carolina and Florida. A resident of Belleview, he can often be found at an equestrian sport venue on his days off. You can reach Ben Baugh at benbaugh@325today.com

Sheriff Billy Woods speaks at a press conference with law enforcement officials standing behind him.
Crime & Safety
2 months ago
40 men arrested in Marion County child predator sting during undercover operation

Operation Seek and Ye Shall Find Out uncovers disturbing online activity as suspects used social media to target children ages 13 to 15.

Marion County Growth Services building exterior with department names listed on facade.
Local
2 months ago
Planning board denies special use permit for Ocala micro-distillery over code violations

Fish Hawk Spirits faces permit setback as county cites unpermitted buildings, missed deadlines, and zoning concerns.

To the left in the background, bookcases with books and other items, along the far wall items on bookcases, tiny chairs and desks, an American flag by the window, a couple in the middle of the room standing on a carpeted floor. to the right in the foreground, tiny desks and chairs.
Education
2 months ago
Belleview Montessori School to open Aug. 2, offering hands-on learning for ages 2–5

Husband-and-wife team brings decades of Montessori experience to Belleview with a focus on early education, child-led discovery, and strong academic foundations.

Exterior of former Elks Lodge building in Belleview with paved parking area and carport.
Business
2 months ago
Belleview storage project moves forward with county approval

Marion County planning board approves special use permit for outdoor RV and boat storage at former Elks Lodge site.

A man in a baseball hat stands next to a woman, with a table that has a yellow tablecloth, with a poster on the front of the table. There are a variety of items on the table. in the background there's the covered roof, pipe rail metal fence and a concrete floor.
Community
2 months ago
Belleview hosts first Community Resource and Conservation Fair on World Nature Conservation Day

More than 30 organizations gathered to share wellness, education, and sustainability resources with residents at the Belleview Community Center.

A sign for the Ocala Police Department with a digital message board below. The top of the sign displays the Ocala Police logo with the words "Integrity, Courage, Character" and large text reading "OCALA POLICE." The digital board underneath shows a scrolling message in red text that reads, "WE'RE HIRING: 911 DISPATCHERS." The sign is supported by red brick columns and surrounded by trees in the background.
Crime & Safety
2 months ago
Ocala sees nearly 5% drop in violent crime despite population surge

With no homicides in over a year, Ocala Police credit community trust, strategic policing, and increased visibility for the city’s declining crime rate.

Jimmy Gooding III speaks at a podium during a county commission meeting.
Local
2 months ago
Marion County approves expansion of Sunkissed Village RV Resort in Summerfield

The 414-unit project along U.S. 441 gets green light for commercial zoning and developer agreement outside the urban growth boundary.

Paolo Mastroserio presents development plans to Marion County commissioners during a public meeting.
Community
2 months ago
Marion County commissioners approve final plan for Westwood Trails development

The 69-home project on SW 75th Ave. will include a park, dog area, and multimodal path as part of the master-planned community.

Dr. Danielle Brewer wearing a red blazer and smiling in a professional headshot.
Education
2 months ago
Marion County schools expand with new programs, campuses, and major upgrades

From aviation mechanics to new school openings, Superintendent Brewer outlines bold plans for growth and improvement across the district.

Woman in red shirt speaks at podium during Marion County Commission hearing.
Local
2 months ago
Marion County Commission backs WEC sports complex plan despite pushback

Proposed 236-acre development moves to state review as officials weigh benefits, farmland concerns, and community impact.

1 9 10 11 12 13 58