A Spectrum crew member monitors fiber-optic network construction in a residential neighborhood as part of the company’s rural broadband expansion in Marion County.
Business
5 months ago
Spectrum expands high-speed internet access to over 6,700 rural locations in Marion County

New fiber-optic network reaches Summerfield, Citra, and Umatilla as part of national rural expansion.

Ocala Car Audio is located near the intersection of Silver Springs Blvd. and S Pine Ave.
Business
5 months ago
Ocala business owner feels the pinch as tariffs drive up costs on imported goods

Parish Tanner, the Owner of Ocala Car Audio, says the prices of imported goods have skyrocketed, and hopes his business can stay afloat while manufacturing moves back to the U.S.

Runners take off during a community 5K race, with the warm evening sun casting long shadows on the course.
Community
5 months ago
Cogent Bank 5K brings purpose, fun, and fitness to Downtown Ocala on May 3

Evening race aims to inspire wellness, celebrate community spirit, and raise funds for local nonprofits.

Morgyn Stevens delivers a pitch during game two of the CF Patriots’ doubleheader against Seminole State on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Sanford, FL.
Sports
5 months ago
Late rally sinks Patriots in extra innings as Santa Fe sweeps doubleheader

Despite early leads in both games, the College of Central Florida softball team couldn’t hold off a powerful Saints offense, falling to 22-28 on the season.

Surveillance footage shows a pickup truck suspected in a hit-and-run crash on April 18 at SR 326 and NE Jacksonville Road in Marion County. Florida Highway Patrol is asking for the public’s help identifying the driver.
Local
5 months ago
FHP investigating hit-and-run crash at SR 326 and NE Jacksonville Road

Florida Highway Patrol asks for public’s help identifying driver who fled scene.

A Dunnellon Police Department vehicle participates in the Ocala Christmas Parade. The city recently approved an agreement for additional MCSO deputies to assist with law enforcement.
Local
5 months ago
More deputies on duty: MCSO steps in to bolster Dunnellon police presence

City council approves contract for six Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies as part of law enforcement shift, with patrols already underway ahead of official start date.

Motorcycles line Main Street in historic Leesburg for Bikefest 2024 on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
Entertainment
5 months ago
Engines, entertainment, and easy access: Leesburg Bikefest returns this weekend

Three-day motorcycle festival brings music, vendors, and shuttle service to downtown Leesburg; drivers on U.S. 441 should plan for delays.

A rendering of the design for two new elementary schools in Marion County. One in Marion Oaks. The other in Winding Oaks.
Education
5 months ago
Ross Prairie and Winding Oaks named as Marion County’s newest elementary schools

With deep roots in local history, the newly named schools also gain community partners and move closer to their 2025 openings.

A newly installed raised median lines a section of SR 200 in Ocala, part of a Florida Department of Transportation project aimed at improving traffic safety and reducing accidents along the busy corridor.
Local
5 months ago
Big changes on SR 200 in Ocala: What you need to know

Raised medians, new turn lanes, and pedestrian signals aim to make one of Ocala’s busiest roads safer, but expect lane shifts and delays during construction.

A vendor smiles while arranging plants at a flower market, one of many garden-themed displays expected at Ocala’s Big Bloom Home & Garden Show.
Local
5 months ago
Big Bloom Home & Garden Show brings fresh ideas to Ocala families this weekend

Free weekend event features shopping, seminars, roses, and kids’ activities at WEC.