Katie Wheeless

Katie Wheeless is the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief for Saga Communications, with a network of hyper-local news platforms dedicated to informing and connecting communities. With a background in media leadership and a passion for local journalism, she oversees editorial direction, community engagement, and strategic growth.

"Still" by Mary Helen Horne
Community
3 months ago
CF Webber Gallery to present ‘The Gap Between Art and Life’ exhibition

The College of Central Florida’s Webber Gallery will host “The Gap Between Art and Life,” a juried installation art exhibition on view Sept. 1–Oct. 16.

Rainy view of palm trees and crepe myrtles under cloudy skies in Ocala, Florida.
Weather Updates
3 months ago
Work Week Weather: Hot Days, Afternoon Thunderstorms Expected Across Ocala

A hot and stormy pattern will dominate Ocala this week, with daily afternoon thunderstorms and highs in the 90s. Here’s your full weekday forecast.

Rainy view of palm trees and crepe myrtles under cloudy skies in Ocala, Florida.
Weather Updates
3 months ago
Flood Watch: NWS advises caution as a tropical storm threat moves through Ocala

A tropical low-pressure system moving through northeastern Florida is triggering heavy rain and flooding concerns in Ocala. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports sustained shower and thunderstorm activity, prompting a Flood Watch through the evening.

Ocala Police Department warn of a DMV Scam Alert
Crime & Safety
3 months ago
Officials warn of New DMV text message scam targeting residents

A new text message scam claiming to be from the Department of Motor Vehicles is circulating and tricking people into giving away money or personal information. Authorities urge residents not to respond to suspicious messages and to verify directly with the DMV.

Gainesville Fire Department host Healthy event
Community
3 months ago
Gainesville Fire Rescue takes health outreach directly to communities with “Healthy Afternoons”

Gainesville Fire Rescue is bringing health directly to the community this summer with its “Healthy Afternoons with Gainesville Fire Rescue” series. Led by Director of Community Health Initiatives Brandy Stone, the events offer free health screenings, education, and resources at neighborhood locations across the city.

Close-up of a "Detour Ahead" sign with traffic cones and road construction in the background.
zzz App Top Stories
3 months ago
UPDATE: Traffic Alert: I-75 NB is open

I 75 Northbound has been closed due to a large truck striking an overpass. Expect delays and look for alternate routes.

A look at the data for Ocala and Marion County's real estate market
Local
3 months ago
Real Estate Report: Ocala’s home prices hold steady in June

According to Realtor.com, Ocala’s housing market remains stable for June with a slight increase in inventory.

Mostly sunny skies on Friday and Saturday lead into a rainy Sunday.
Weather Updates
3 months ago
Weekend Weather: Hot temperatures and afternoon storms expected in Marion County.

Weekend storms and rising temperatures are in the forecast for Marion County, with rain likely on Saturday and clearer skies by Sunday. Here’s what you need to know before making weekend plans.

Marion County Development Planning Committee Meeting review
Local
3 months ago
What’s being built in Ocala? 3 new developments under review this month

Three new developments, including Arden of Ocala, Juniper Loop, and Piccadilly Square, are under review as Marion County plans for continued growth in housing and commercial space.

911 Emergency Management
Local
3 months ago
Marion County Agencies Respond Swiftly and Collaboratively to 911 Service Disruption

Despite widespread 911 outages across Central Florida, Marion County agencies responded swiftly and collaboratively.