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

Members of the Belleview Chamber and Economic Partnership hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Feb. 4, 2025, to welcome two new doctors to McKenney Chiropractic Center in Belleview, FL.
Business
8 months ago
Belleview chiropractic center welcomes new doctors, expanding community care

McKenney Chiropractic Center adds two new providers, strengthening its 40-year legacy of healing and wellness, enhancing the community’s quality of life, one adjustment at a time.

Community
8 months ago
Marion County Commission reviews key changes to animal control ordinance

Proposed amendments address no-kill shelter status, pet licensing, and new tethering regulations in ongoing public hearings.

Ocala-based Amanda Steege and the Belgian Warmblood gelding Laffite de Muze have enjoyed great success. Laffitte de Muze was the USEF High Performance Hunter of the Year.
Equine
8 months ago
Laffite de Muze shines in $80,000 International Hunter Derby at World Equestrian Center

Amanda Steege and her Belgian Warmblood claim victory in Ocala’s premier hunter competition under the lights.

Sarah Jacobs, a ninth and tenth-grade English teacher at West Port High School, was selected as the Marion County Teacher of the Year at the 35th Annual Golden Apple Gala at the Reilly Center for the Arts on Feb. 1, 2025.
Education
8 months ago
Golden Apple Gala 2025: Marion County honors top educators at prestigious event

The 35th Annual Golden Apple Gala honored Marion County’s most dedicated educators, naming Sarah Jacobs as the 2025 Teacher of the Year and celebrating the outstanding contributions of teachers who shape students’ futures.

Ocala-based rider Josh Dolan and Something Blue placed third in the Platinum Performance/USHJA International Hunter Derby Challenge Round in Lexington, KY on Aug. 17, 2024.
Equine
8 months ago
Josh Dolan’s journey: How Ocala became the perfect home for his equestrian success

From junior rider to elite hunter trainer, Dolan shares his path to success, the horses that shaped him, and why the World Equestrian Center is his ideal competition venue

HD Rapids Percherons, owned and operated by the Deer Family of Kahnawake Mohawk Territory, driven by Justin Hille.
Entertainment
8 months ago
Majestic draft horses compete at Grandview Invitational in Florida Horse Park

Experience the power and grace of Percheron draft horses as top competitors gather for an exciting weekend of competition, tradition, and horsepower at the Grandview Invitational.

An artist's rendering of Parking Garage #2 showcases the planned design and layout, highlighting its integration into downtown Ocala’s aesthetic and functionality.
Local
8 months ago
New Ocala parking garage to add 800 spaces and enhance downtown accessibility

Parking Garage No. 2 will feature modern design, security enhancements, and a memorial space for Mt. Moriah Baptist Church.

Front of The Equestrian Hotel at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, decorated for Christmas.
Business
8 months ago
World Equestrian Center drives Ocala land boom: Property values surge over 325%

A new report reveals how the WEC Effect has skyrocketed vacant land prices in Marion County, solidifying Ocala’s reputation as the Horse Capital of the World.

Lauren Proctor-Brown (white sleeves) and Laura Willson (green jersey) attempt to ride each other off in a game at the Ocala Polo Club at the Florida Horse Park on June 1, 2024. Courtesy: Ben Baugh/352today
Local
8 months ago
Florida Horse Park stands as Central Florida’s premier equestrian and event destination

The Florida Horse Park has grown into a vital community asset with 130 annual events, major facility upgrades, and a key role in emergency response efforts.

Gilberto Martinez stands with Last Leaf at Barn 12 at the OBS Sales Pavilion on Jan. 28, 2025. The 6-year-old mare was the sales topper, bringing $140,000.
Equine
8 months ago
Last Leaf tops 2025 Ocala Breeders Sales winter mixed sale with $140,000 sale price

Five-time stakes winner, Last Leaf, leads the auction as sales reach over $3.1 million; top horses include yearlings and racing prospects.

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