Kathy Dugan

Kathy is what is called a "River Rat" from Dunnellon, spending a lot of time on the beautiful Rainbow River growing up. She's spent 18+ years in radio news and more than 30 years as a journalist. She holds an AA in Mass Communications from the College of Central Florida.

Racehorse Sovereignty, wearing number 14 and ridden by a jockey in blue silks, crosses the finish line first on a muddy track at Churchill Downs during the 151st Kentucky Derby. Several other horses trail closely behind as a crowd of spectators, many in hats, cheer and take photos from the stands. Uniformed personnel line the grassy infield near the iconic Derby finish post.
National
5 months ago
Sovereignty wins muddy 151st Kentucky Derby as rain soaks Churchill Downs

Fans in ponchos and a sloppy track set the stage as favorite Journalism falls short in dramatic Run for the Roses.

Jay Jung, wearing a red CF baseball jersey and white pants, clenches his fist and shows emotion on the pitcher’s mound after a key play during the FCSAA regional game at Indian River State College on May 2, 2025.
Sports
5 months ago
Patriots dominate game one behind hot bats, strong outing from Jung

CF one win away from Region 8 Final Four after 13-4 victory over Indian River.

An elderly woman with light hair and glasses sits in a blue chair, carefully weaving a colorful basket by hand. She is surrounded by a display table filled with completed woven baskets in various patterns and sizes.
Community
5 months ago
ICYMI: Art, music, and movement light up downtown Ocala at First Friday Art Walk | PHOTOS

First Friday Art Walk featured the debut of “Melodic Metamorphosis,” local performers, student dancers, and award-winning works.

Cyclist in action
Community
5 months ago
Sharing the road: AAA urges bike safety during National Bike Month

With injuries and deaths on the rise, AAA offers safety tips to help cyclists and drivers stay alert, visible, and respectful this May

Thick smoke from a wildfire billows into the sky behind a wire and barbed fence, partially obscuring trees in the background. Some vegetation and branches are caught in the fence, emphasizing the fire’s proximity.
Local
5 months ago
Update: Evacuation order lifted for Silver Springs Fire

Residents allowed to return home as fire crews remain on scene; roads reopened but caution still urged along SE Hwy 314.

The photo shows a man standing on a grassy field with scattered trees in the background. He appears to be in his 20s or 30s, wearing a white baseball cap, a dark blue polo shirt, and dark pants. He is holding a white object—possibly a rolled-up shirt or towel—in both hands. The image is from surveillance footage and is slightly grainy, taken in daylight under clear skies.
Crime & Safety
5 months ago
Deputies search for person of interest after $12K utility vehicle stolen in Marion County

MCSO releases surveillance image of man seen in area at time of theft; Crime Stoppers tips may earn cash reward.

Mugshot of Charlie Daniels Jr. by Marion County Sheriff's Office, age 25.
Crime & Safety
5 months ago
Suspect arrested after road rage, gunfire, and two chases in Marion County

MCSO says Charlie Daniels Jr. threatened victims, shot at a vehicle, and fled deputies twice before surrendering near I-75.

Photo of Marion County Public Schools administration sign with inset of Ben Whitehouse.
Education
5 months ago
Ben Whitehouse tapped as deputy superintendent in Marion County leadership shift

Longtime educator and Forest High alum joins interim superintendent Brewer to lead MCPS through upcoming transition.

Photo of storm clouds, thick over Live Oak horse farm in Ocala.
Weather Updates
5 months ago
WEEKEND WEATHER: Storms could roll into Ocala by Saturday afternoon

Severe thunderstorm risk between 2 and 9 p.m. may bring strong winds, hail, and lightning, according to the National Weather Service.

Photo of two hands - and adult's and a child's - holding a butterfly to release.
Community
5 months ago
Butterflies take flight in Ocala to honor bereaved mothers this Sunday

The Dandelion Project’s annual Butterfly Release offers healing and hope ahead of Mother’s Day at Good Shepherd Memorial Gardens.

1 31 32 33 34 35 141