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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@352today.com

Marion County Public Schools sign with slogan "Helping Every Student Succeed" against a blue sky.
Education
1 month ago
Northend Rezoning Discussion Continues at Marion County Public School Board Meeting

The Marion County Public School Board continued the deep and emotionally-charged discussion about rezoning and consolidation for schools on the Northend of the county.

A man sitting down on the extreme left, with a table with bottles, paper name placards with a man siting in front of a podium, with another man standing behind the podium, and behind him on the wall is a picture of a horse, and to the right against a beige wall is a large screen displaying a slide.
Local
1 month ago
Marion County Tourist Development Council Recommends Approving a Digital Media Campaign for the America 250 Commemoration Initiative

The Marion County Tourist Development Council recommended approving a request for a communications campaign and strategic media commemoration initiative, for Liberty Lives Here: Marion County America 250.

Marion County Growth Services building exterior with department names listed on facade.
Business
1 month ago
Permit Application for Commercial Canine Operation in Ocala Moves to Marion County Commission for Approval

The Marion County Planning and Zoning Commission approved recommending a special unit for a commercial canine training and boarding facility in Ocala. It will go before the Board of County Commissioners next month.

Marion County Public Schools sign with slogan "Helping Every Student Succeed" against a blue sky.
Education
1 month ago
Marion County Schools Workshop Session Features Deep Discussion over Northend Schools

The Marion County Public School Board administrative briefing and work session saw lively discussion regarding the elementary schools in the Northend.

On the left an American flag, the flag of the State of Florida, a woman behind a podium with a microphone, a large screen to the woman's right with writing and an image.
Community
1 month ago
Ocala Woman Works Toward Educating the Community about Domestic Violence

Darnitha Johnson has taken her own experiences, including being homeless and in abusive relationships, to help and empower women who are going through similar situations.

Two women and two men stand on a mat, in front of plastic barricades with structures in the background.
Sports
1 month ago
Sports Psychology Consultant Mario Soto Helps Ocala-based Athletes and Others Up Their Game

Sports psychology consultant Mario Soto is helping athletes of all levels, including some of Ocala’s best, reach optimal results.

A horsewoman dressed in costume, wearing a naval themed outfit, riding a horse and clearing a jumping effort, with the standard saying hits, in a ring, with trees in the background.
Community
1 month ago
Children’s Charity Classic Connects the Community through Horses, Giving and Family Fun

The United Way of Marion County’s Children’s Charity Classic presented by HCA Florida Healthcare at HITS Post Time Farm showcased the area’s deep ties to the equestrian community, while providing much needed support to area charities that provide critical services.

A man standing in front of a circular rotunda, with glass, and flags suspended from the ceiling in the background. The man is to the left of a number of items, including a uniform, framed documents on the floor and on a table to the right of a man, and picture placards to the extreme right.
Local
1 month ago
Ocala Community Leader Celebrates Father’s Legacy at Florida State Capitol

Ocala’s Larry Johnson, celebrated the legacy of this father the Rev. Leroy Johnson with a presentation at the State Capitol in Tallahassee.

In the foreground is a blurred black light pole with autumn-colored leaves hanging around it. In the background is a white gazebo with an American flag standing on top of it. Further back are restaurants and shops lining a city street.
Local
1 month ago
Ocala City Council Approves Paddock Market’s Request to Sell Alcohol on Premises

The Ocala City Council approved the request of Paddock Market to sell beer, wine and liquor for on-premises consumption.

Front view of the Marion County Board of County Commissioners building in Ocala, Florida
Community
1 month ago
Marion County Commission Holds Public Hearing on Concerts at World Equestrian Center

The first of two public hearings regarding a developer amendment agreement between Marion County and the owners, including the World Equestrian Center was held Feb. 18, 2026, with the board taking no action and hearing only public comment.