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

A man dressed in a miliary uniform, with a slew of decorations on the right side of his chest, campaign ribbons on the left, with man to his right. In the background, seats, in the far background, a wood grain wall, and a flag of the State of Florida to the right.
Community
1 month ago
Marion County Proclaims Jan. 10 Capt. Steve Petty Day, Honoring the Veteran for His Service

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed Jan. 10 Capt. Steve Petty Day for his service to the community and the nation.

A man dressed in a suit standing before a microphone with gray seats, a brown baseboard and beige wall int he background.
Education
1 month ago
Marion School Board Presented with FDLRS Update at Work Session

The Marion County Public School Board was provided with an update on the Florida Diagnostic Learning Resources System at their Jan. 8, 2026, meeting.

A building with a white and beige facade, with the beige pat having lettering, there is a plaque in the far background, and columns on both the first and second structure, with gray steps and guard rails for the step in the foreground.
Local
1 month ago
Ocala City Council Approves Location Permit and Zoning Change

The Ocala City Council was busy at their Jan. 6, 2026, meeting listening to several public hearings, and voting on two of them.

Local
1 month ago
Former Ocala City Councilwoman and Leader Mary Sue Rich Honored at City Council Meeting

The late former Ocala City Councilwoman Mary Sue Rich, known for her leadership and commitment to the community, was honored with a proclamation at the Ocala City Council meeting on Jan. 6, 2026.

Local
1 month ago
Ocala Swimming Icon to be Honored with Plaque on City’s Walk of Fame

Ocala swimming legend Newton A. Perry is being honored for contributions to sport, the film industry and U.S. military with a plaque on the city’s Walk of Fame.

Front view of the Marion County Board of County Commissioners building in Ocala, Florida
Local
1 month ago
Marion Commission Approves Special Use Permit to Allow Goats on Residential Property

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners narrowly approved a special use permit that will allow the applicant to have four goats on their property that is zoned single-family dwelling.

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Community
1 month ago
Marion County Commission Provided with Update in Advance of 2026 Florida Legislative Session

Dr. Matthew Cretul, Marion County’s legislative manager provided the Marion County Board of County Commissioners with a legislative update in advance of the beginning the of 2026 Florida legislative session.

Marion County Public Schools sign with slogan "Helping Every Student Succeed" against a blue sky.
Education
1 month ago
Marion Public Schools Meeting to Feature Diagnostic and Learning Resources System Update

The Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System will provide an update on fiscal year 2024-2025 at the Marion County Public Schools administrative briefing and workshop session this Thursday.

Chairs and metal riser stands with banner on the left, in the background, a roof, RV on a clay surface, with a man in a baseball hat, a horse, young woman wearing a cowboy hat, and woman wearing a pink top on the right.
Sports
1 month ago
It’s All in the Family for 3G Ranch in Anthony

As youngest family rider Georgia Hoffman transitions from being a youth cutting champion to all-around high school rodeo competition, parents Grant and Ginger of Anthony’s 3G Ranch keep a love of riding in the family.

Glass door to the left, bring wall with a numbers on a placard above large placard with letters and numbers.
Local
1 month ago
Marion County Commission to Consider Land Use Amendment Change for Silver Springs Shores Parcel

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners will consider a zoning change request for a small-scale land use amendment for a parcel in Silver Springs Shores.