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.

Ocala Police Department warn of a DMV Scam Alert
Crime & Safety
2 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
2 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
2 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
2 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
2 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
2 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
2 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.

Hope Lake Weir receives certification from Second Harvest Food bank
Community
2 months ago
Hope Lake Weir Joins Second Harvest Food Bank’s Nutritious Pantry Network

Hope Lake Weir is one of the five local community feeding partners to achieve Nutritious Pantry certification from Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.

Kids making summer-time memories in Ocala Florida
Entertainment
2 months ago
5 Family-Friendly Things to do Before Summer Break Ends in Marion County

Marion County Schools will start back in just a little over a month. Here are 5 fun things to do before summer vacation comes to an end.

Gainesville Fire and Rescue is deployed to help with search and rescue in Texas
Local
2 months ago
Gainesville Fire Rescue District Chief deploys to Texas with Florida USAR Task Force 8

Gainesville Fire Rescue has deployed to Texas to help with search and rescue after devastating floods swept through the area.