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

Foreground looking through the windshield at cars to the left, a pick-up truck in the middle front and vehicle to the right. A tree line is to the right.
Local
3 months ago
Crash with injuries on I-75 in Sumter County closes southbound lanes.

Vehicle crash on I-75 near mile marker 332 slows traffic, shuts down southbound lanes.

In the foreground a man wearing glasses and blue scrubs, wearing an identification badge. the background has a black wall with red and white lettering, and below that the wall is white, with a long hallway to the right with photos on it.
Community
3 months ago
HCA Florida Ocala hospital chosen to launch institute’s first research program in north Florida

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital will launch HCA Healthcare Research Institute’s first research program in north Florida.

Background has a blue sky and white clouds, over a beige colored building, with lettering and windows, with ornamental plans in planter and a parking lot in the foreground.
Local
3 months ago
County to hold public hearing for proposed roadway project that will improve existing infrastructure

The final public hearing for a proposed roadway improvement project is being held Aug. 6, 2025, at 1 p.m., at the McPherson Governmental Campus.

Background is a blue sky, white clouds, shade trees behind the roof of the building, middle ground, a building with white columns, inset with window and doors and brick, in front of the building, sod and sidewalks, and in the foreground, a parking lot.
Community
3 months ago
Final public hearing for 2025-26 annual action plan scheduled before MCBOCC

A final public hearing to gather feedback on the final draft of the community services and Marion County Consortium’s annual action plan for the upcoming fiscal year is scheduled for Aug. 5, 2025, before the Marion County Board of County Commissioners.

A logo with an arc over top of an image of a building, with lettering in the arc. Below the building, there is a flag banner with writing.
Community
3 months ago
Open house showcases Sumter County’s safety action plan

Sumter County is hosting an open house unveiling the safety action plan on Aug. 14 from 6 p,m. to 7 p.m. at the Wildwood Community Center.

A large warehouse with lettering on it and a banner with lettering on it hanging down in the middle of the photo, in the middle of the photo there's flora and a sidewalk, and in the foreground a parking lot.
Local
3 months ago
Sumter county study for project includes roadway widening and turn lane additions at busy intersection

A Sumter County study addresses future projects to widen and add turns lanes on CR 466 and U.S. Hwy. 301.

Floral display to the left of a portrait of a man in a suit and to the right in the foreground is a table with military decorations in shadow boxes, in the background is the American flag to the left, pipes to a pie organ, and to the right more pipes for a pie organ.
Local
3 months ago
Lt. Col. Frank M. Rasbury, Jr. embodied leadership, virtue and service

A memorial service was held for U.S. Army Lt. Col. Frank M. Rasbury Jr. at St. Paul’s Methodist Church in Ocala. He was remembered for his leadership and service.

Scarlett Phillips sits in a vehicle wearing a green dress and pearl necklace, smiling at the camera.
Features
4 months ago
Ocala teen inspired to pursue law and sign language after life-changing encounter

Florida Cyber Charter Academy student Scarlett Phillips plans to advocate for the deaf community through a legal career sparked by a meaningful moment of connection.

Sheriff Billy Woods speaks at a press conference with law enforcement officials standing behind him.
Crime & Safety
4 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
4 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.

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