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.

College of Central Florida players celebrate between innings during a recent softball game. The Patriots swept St. Petersburg College on Tuesday with wins of 7-6 and 13-6.
Sports
6 months ago
Patriots rally late, then dominate to sweep St. Pete on the road

CF softball erases four-run deficit in game one, then pounds out 19 hits in game two to complete the sweep.

Florida guard Walter Clayton Jr. holds up the trophy as the team arrives at the University of Florida after winning the NCAA national basketball championship, Tuesday, April 8, 2025, in Gainesville, FL.
Sports
6 months ago
Gators to honor National Champion basketball team at Orange & Blue game on April 12

Weekend lineup features spring football, baseball, tennis, and a championship celebration in the Swamp.

A Marion County Fire Rescue firefighter uses a saw to cut into a burned vehicle as another crew member stands by early Tuesday, April 9, 2024, after extinguishing a fire off East Highway 40. No injuries were reported.
Local
6 months ago
Firefighters put out early morning vehicle fire off 40 East

Marion County Fire Rescue crews had to cut into the car after extinguishing the flames.

There's plenty for families do from craft fairs to Easter egg hunts all across the 352.
Entertainment
6 months ago
Hop into Easter fun: Your family-friendly guide to egg hunts and spring events in the 352

From glow-in-the-dark egg hunts to carnival games and petting zoos, here’s where to find the best local Easter events happening all month long.

New playground equipment is on its way to Weirsdale Park.
Community
6 months ago
New playground coming to Weirsdale Park: Work begins this week

Marion County begins equipment upgrades at Weirsdale Park, keeping other amenities open during renovations.

The FWC says bats, like this yellow bat, are a beneficial part of the ecosystem and eat hundreds of insects a night.
Local
6 months ago
Need to remove bats? You’ll need a permit after April 15

FWC asks homeowners to act now before bat maternity season makes removal more complicated.

A large conch shell rests on the wet sand along the shoreline on a sunny day.
Local
6 months ago
Ocala man hit by Jeep while sunbathing on Ormond Beach

The 33-year-old was lying near a beach ramp when a driver backed over him; he’s expected to recover.

Deputy Young places Titan Kiner, 17, in handcuffs on April 3, 2025, in northwest Marion County, FL. Kiner was arrested after allegedly pointing a realistic-looking BB gun at children from a passing moped.
Crime & Safety
6 months ago
Teen accused of pointing BB gun at children; both moped riders arrested in Marion County

Deputies say the incident prompted a brief pursuit and ended with the safe arrest of two individuals, including a juvenile now facing assault charges.

State
6 months ago
New ID rule could affect summer travel plans for Ocala families

Starting May 7, local travelers flying domestically will need a REAL ID or valid passport – here’s how to check if your license qualifies.

Marion County Public Schools sign displaying logo and motto, "Helping Every Student Succeed," against a clear blue sky.
Education
6 months ago
Marion school board looks for interim superintendent as summer approaches

Parents can follow the public hiring process and share input as leadership transition begins.

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