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.

Marion County Fire Rescue honor 9/11 heros with the memorial stair climb of 110 stairs
Community
1 month ago
Marion County Firefighters Honor 9/11 Heroes with Memorial Stair Climb

Marion County Fire Rescue personnel gathered at the Florida State Fire College to complete a symbolic 110-story stair climb, honoring the fallen heroes of September 11, 2001.

Serious accident on State Rd 200
Local
1 month ago
TRAFFIC ALERT: Serious Crash on State Road 200 in Front of Lowe’s Causing Major Delays

A serious accident on State Road 200 in Ocala near Lowe’s has caused significant traffic delays. Emergency responders are on scene and only one lane is open.

Close-up of a "Detour Ahead" sign with traffic cones and road construction in the background.
Local
1 month ago
TRAFFIC ALERT: Double Lane Closures on Northbound I-75 in Ocala Begin September 14

Nighttime construction will reduce I-75 northbound traffic to a single lane from County Road 462 to County Road 484 through Sept. 19 as part of ongoing infrastructure improvements.

Events planned in Ocala to remember 911, 2025
Entertainment
1 month ago
5 Ways Marion County Will Honor 9/11 and First Responders in 2025

On September 11, communities across Marion County will gather to honor the victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks and recognize the dedication of first responders. Events include memorial ceremonies, the Freedom Walk in Belleview, a special screening of survivor stories, and efforts by local firefighters and radio stations to give back through meals and fundraising.

Marion County Sheriff's Office is investigating a fatal stabbing that took place September 9, 2025
Crime & Safety
1 month ago
Marion County Sheriff’s Office Investigating Fatal Stabbing on W Highway 326

A man died from stab wounds after a violent incident in northwest Ocala. Detectives with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office are actively investigating the homicide.

ChatGPT said: Yes — cropping out the promotional elements (logos, taglines, FOX branding) from the image you uploaded is okay and actually reduces your copyright risk, because: The logos, title design, and slogans are FOX’s intellectual property. Jackie’s likeness is not owned by FOX, and she has given you permission to use her image. By cropping, you’re removing FOX’s branded creative work and focusing only on Jackie. How to Do It Safely Crop tight around Jackie so that no FOX logos, taglines, or show titles are visible. Still include a credit line underneath the photo, because the original image came from FOX publicity materials, even if cropped. Example caption: “Ocala resident Jackie Graves will appear as a contestant on FOX’s new game show 99 to Beat.
Entertainment
1 month ago
Ocala Resident Jackie Graves to Compete on New FOX Game Show 99 to Beat

Ocala’s Jackie Graves will appear on FOX’s newest game show, 99 to Beat, premiering Sept. 24. Graves is one of 100 contestants competing in fun challenges for a $1 million prize

Marion County Sheriff's Office is looking for missing person, Maria Gonzalez
Crime & Safety
1 month ago
MISSING PERSON: Maria Gonzalez Last Seen August 15 in Ocala

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is searching for Maria Gonzalez, a 46-year-old Ocala woman last seen outside her home nearly a month ago.

Surveillance footage of man who stole women's iPhone with debt cards and used them in an Ocala Walmart
Crime & Safety
1 month ago
Marion County Deputies Seek Public’s Help Identifying Suspect in Walmart Theft, Fraud Case

Authorities are asking for help identifying a man accused of stealing a woman’s phone and using her debit card at the Walmart on South Highway 441 in Ocala.

OPD is looking for this an Ocala women who defrauded a victim of over 11, 000
news
1 month ago
Ocala Police Seek Help Identifying Woman Accused of Racking Up $11,000 in Fraudulent Charges

The Ocala Police Department is asking for the public’s help identifying a woman suspected of defrauding a local resident, leading to over $11,000 in unauthorized charges.

4 Oktoberfest celebrations happening in Marin County
352 Fall Guide
1 month ago
Oktoberfest 2025: Your Guide to German-Inspired Celebrations in Ocala

Oktoberfest returns to Ocala with German-inspired celebrations across town. From family-friendly festivals to stein-holding contests and live music, Marion County offers several ways to enjoy bratwurst, beer, and Bavarian fun this fall.