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

Community
1 year ago
The “Spirits” of Generosity: Brick City Beer & Wine Festival raises $150,000 to benefit three charities

The festivals proceeds will be split between Kimberly’s Center for Child Protection, Interfaith Emergency Services, and the Marion County Literacy Council.

A sign with fancy filigreed, and lettering, with a digital sign in the middle, sitting on top of a stone support, with a hedge buffer to the front, side and back, with a road to the left and a field and tree line in the back, cars, and light poles to the right.
Community
1 year ago
Council approves sale of 115 acres near Ocala Airport for a price tag of $12 million

The Ocala Airport still has 335 acres of non-aviation property that it’s looking to sell or lease.

Community
1 year ago
Developer withdraws application to build 500-vehicle storage lot on 15 acres near Cross Florida Greenway

The proposal would have altered the land use of a 15-acre parcel to build a lot to store boats, recreational vehicles, and trailers.

Community
1 year ago
New mural at Boys and Girls Club of Marion County represents years of persistence and patience

Ocala artist E.J. Nieves painted the mural that faces the playground area at Carver Park.

Local
1 year ago
THEN AND NOW: Six Ocala mayors gather to reflect on leading the community

Current Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano met with five former mayors – Wayne L. Rubinas, Craig Curry, Gerald K. Ergle, Randall “Randy” Ewers, Reuben Kent Guinn – to share ideas and experiences.

Equine
1 year ago
Ocala equine artist’s painting captures the spirit of her subjects

Artist Sharon Crute brings unique insight and perspective to her work because of her practical experience.

Crime & Safety
1 year ago
Ocala Police release bodycam footage showing the moments before an officer shoots man armed with pepper spray and knife | VIDEO

The Ocala Police Department says officers acted according to protocol to subdue a man suffering from mental health issues.

Local
1 year ago
CONTINUING COVERAGE: How multiple agencies worked together to save lives in the wake of the bus crash tragedy | PHOTOS & VIDEO

First responders say communication and training were crucial amid the urgency and stress of a rare mass casualty incident.

Local
1 year ago
“Our hearts are broken, too.” Vigil attracts hundreds of mourners paying homage at deadly bus crash site

Grief is the same in any language. Hundreds showed up to pay their respects Friday night at what has become known as the Ocala Ocho memorial along State Road 40 where eight farmworkers died on Tuesday.

Equine
1 year ago
Marion County’s ties to thoroughbreds in Saturday’s Preakness Stakes

Saturday’s Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland, features three horses with local ties among the entries.