Children enjoy the slides at Tuscawilla Park in Ocala. Portions of the playground will close in phases for upgrades and maintenance.
Community
5 months ago
Tuscawilla Park playground gets a fresh update, but expect temporary closures

Rotating sections will close for maintenance as crews install new equipment and spruce up the space.

Local
5 months ago
New Ocala development could bring homes, businesses to busy corridor

Freedom Commons project spans over 330 acres and is under review for residential and commercial use near existing neighborhoods.

Authorities say the burglars target unlocked vehicles by "car hopping" through the neighborhood.
Crime & Safety
5 months ago
Early morning burglars hit Silver Springs Shores, steal multiple firearms from unlocked cars

MCSO urges residents to lock vehicles and report suspicious activity after thieves strike during overnight hours.

Left to right: Marcia Meloni, WOW 2nd VP; Patricia Pratt, WOW Technology Chairperson; Kari Hamende, HMCF Interim Executive Director; Michele Croud, WOW President; Stacey Perlmutter, HMCF Annual Gifts Manager; Martha Dominguez, HMCF Dementia Services Manager; Dolores Burke, WOW 1st VP; Anita Martinetto, WOW Treasurer.
Community
5 months ago
Fashion with a purpose: Local women’s club doubles donation for dementia education

WOW Club’s $8,500 gift to Hospice of Marion County will fund a new training center for caregivers and first responders.

Tamara Fleischhaker, smiling in a professional headshot, wearing a black blazer and blue top against a neutral background.
Community
5 months ago
Tamara Fleischhaker named interim CEO of Ocala Metro CEP

Fleischhaker steps in to lead CEP during leadership transition as national CEO search continues.

Rotarians Herb Silverman, Tony Park, and Phyllis Silverman plus a friend
Community
5 months ago
Rotary returns to Ocala with first new club in 23 years

Rotary Club of IMPACT Ocala offers a modern, flexible approach to service and community connection.

A person holds a credit card while reviewing payment information on a laptop, common scenario scammers exploit in identity theft cases.
Community
5 months ago
Belleview hosts free movie night with a serious message: How to protect your family from scams

Watch ‘Thelma,’ enjoy refreshments, and learn how to outsmart fraudsters at this free April 29 event focused on identity theft prevention.

JROTC cadets stand at the starting line with U.S., Texas, and POW-MIA flags before the 15-mile Bataan Memorial March at Baseline Trailhead on April 18, 2025.
Local
5 months ago
Marching for heroes: Marion County JROTC cadets honor Bataan legacy with 15-mile trek

Cadets from four local high schools join forces to remember WWII sacrifices, build leadership, and serve their community.

A sign marks the future home of the Marion County Animal Services shelter at 6405 W. Highway 40 in Ocala, Fla., as construction progresses on the highly anticipated facility, set to open in December 2025
Local
5 months ago
Marion County Animal Shelter receives $5.7M boost to finish construction

Donations help fund storm-ready upgrades and keep project on track for December opening.

Ocala gas prices remain steady even as crude oil drops and gasoline futures climb.
Local
5 months ago
Florida gas prices dip slightly, but upward pressure may return

Ocala drivers see slight relief at the pump, but rising oil prices could shift trend.