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

A placard with an image of a horse and writing in the left, and writing against a blue background on right. On the left is pavement in the background and foreground, and on the right is grass.
Education
2 weeks ago
Ocala Horse Alliance to Raise Funds for Black Stallion Reading Project

The Ocala Horse Alliance will be holding a fundraiser, Leg Up for Literacy, to help support the Black Stallion Reading Project, which has become a staple in Marion County Schools.

Crime & Safety
2 weeks ago
Ocala Man Dies After Being Struck by Vehicle, SUV Fled the Scene

OCALA, FL (352today.com) – A vehicle crash has led to the death of a […]

Marion County Growth Services building exterior with department names listed on facade.
Local
2 weeks ago
Marion County Planning and Zoning Board Recommends Home Depot’s Request for Storage Permit

The Marion County Planning and Zoning Board unanimously recommended a special use permit request from Home Depot for storage at its planned facility in On Top of the World.

Florida Highway Patrol cruiser with red and blue lights on
Crime & Safety
2 weeks ago
Ocala Man Struck, Killed by Train After His Vehicle Became Stuck on Tracks

A 72-yrar-old Ocala man was killed when his car became stuck on train tracks, and the vehicle was struck by an oncoming train.

A smiling man in an orange and white jump suit against a gray background.
Crime & Safety
2 weeks ago
Port St. Lucie Man Charged with Four Felonies for Crimes Committed in Ocala

Gavin Parker Johnson, 24, was charged with four felonies, including committing domestic battery.

A well-dressed young woman in a black dress against a gray background.
Crime & Safety
2 weeks ago
Ocala Student Dies from Injuries After Being Struck by Vehicle

A Forest High School student was struck by a vehicle and died as a result of the injuries she sustained on Oct. 27, 2025.

A group of people standing in front of an exhibit placard, with a faux brick floor in the foreground.
Equine
3 weeks ago
Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association Inducts 15 New Members

The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners inducted 15 new members into its Hall of Fame in a ceremony on Oct. 24, 2025.

In the foreground is a light pole with autumn-colored leave and a sideways sign reading, "Ocala. Find your place." In the background are trees, buildings and multiple poles with similar leaves and signs reading rules. There are also tables with umbrellas and walking paths for public use.
Community
3 weeks ago
Spirited Debate over Sprinkler Change Order Punctuates Ocala City Council Meeting

The Ocala City Councill approved a change order for a sprinkler system in the city’s garage no, 2, but the text for the agenda item created some confusion.

Deep set windows, first and second floor, with white trim, with a facade over columns, with lettering, with stairs in the foreground.
Local
3 weeks ago
Ocala City Council Approves Transmission of Amendment Request over Rezoning to the State

Ocala City Council unanimously approved a request for a transmittal to the Florida Department of Commerce in relation to a text amendment to the future land use element of the comprehensive plan.

Front view of the Marion County Board of County Commissioners building in Ocala, Florida
Community
3 weeks ago
Marion County Commission Unanimously Approves Change to Proposed Subdivision

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved zoning changes for the Martingale subdivision, increasing both residential units and commercial space.