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.

Weekend Weather Graphic
Weather Updates
3 weeks ago
WEEKEND WEATHER: Hot, Humid Days with Afternoon Thunderstorms Expected in Ocala

Ocala faces a steamy stretch from Thursday through Saturday, with daily highs in the mid-90s and high humidity fueling frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Residents should prepare for brief downpours, lightning, and heat-related health risks.

Accident new Paddock Mall has local roads closed
Local
3 weeks ago
TRAFFIC ALERT: Pedestrian fatally struck near Paddock Mall; eastbound Lanes on SW College Rd. closed

A fatal pedestrian crash near the 3100 block of SW College Road in Ocala has shut down all eastbound lanes as police investigate. Drivers should expect delays and seek alternate routes.

Semi in accident that shuts down I75 in Ocala
Local
3 weeks ago
UPDATED: Overturned semi-truck closes I-75 northbound in Ocala after multi-vehicle crash

A tire blowout led to a serious crash on I-75 in Ocala Wednesday afternoon, leaving two people hospitalized and blocking all northbound lanes near Mile Marker 352.

Tiz Whiz Feed store burning in Reddick Florida
Local
3 weeks ago
Fire engulfs Reddick feed store, no injuries reported

Marion County Fire Rescue responded to a massive commercial blaze Monday night at Tiz Whiz Feed and Hay in Reddick. Explosions were reported as the fire threatened nearby homes.

Crime & Safety
3 weeks ago
Lady Lake man accused of forcing way into senior’s home, injuring 78-year-old woman

A 53-year-old man is facing multiple felony charges after police say he forced his way into a 78-year-old Lady Lake woman’s home, tried to steal her purse, and injured her during the struggle before being caught minutes later.

A little girl pets a baby alligator with Reptile Encounters at the NCF Outdoor Expo.
Entertainment
3 weeks ago
Outdoor fun turns wild: BB guns, alligators, and giveaways headline Ocala’s 7th Annual North Central Florida Outdoor Expo

Ocala’s biggest indoor outdoor showcase returns August 16 at the World Equestrian Center’s Expo Center 2, promising BB guns, gators, archery, and family-friendly giveaways in a safely air-conditioned setting.

The exterior of the Marion Theatre, featuring a retro-style marquee with red neon letters and a sign below reading "Showtimes at MarionTheatre.org." The building has a pink and cream facade with red doors and art deco accents.
Community
3 weeks ago
Step back in time: 12 historic places in Ocala you don’t want to miss

Ocala’s history isn’t confined to museums. From a reconstructed frontier fort to a hidden spring just off a busy road, here are 10 sites that reveal the city’s past — and a few that even longtime locals might have missed.

South Ocala Elementary School welcome back over 700 students.
Local
4 weeks ago
First day of school brings smiles to South Ocala Elementary | PHOTOS

South Ocala Elementary School welcomed students back for the first day of the 2025–26 school year with bright smiles, new backpacks, and an unmistakable sense of excitement.

Collage of images from Ocala, 352 Today's Top stories
Local
4 weeks ago
Top 10 Stories You May Have Missed This Week on 352 Today (8/2-8/8)

From viral BBQ to crime alerts and traffic delays, here are the top 10 most-read stories in Ocala and Marion County this week, according to Google Analytics.

Dark storm clouds loom over a green field in southeast Ocala.
Weather Updates
4 weeks ago
WEEKEND WEATHER: Ocala’s weekend forecast shows high rain chances

A line of strong afternoon thunderstorms is expected to persist through the weekend in Ocala, with afternoons into early evenings bringing the highest rainfall potential—read on for what residents should plan for this weekend’s weather.