Close-up of a burnt dryer with charred laundry and smoke damage at a laundromat.
Local
5 months ago
Dryer fire contained quickly at Ocala Express Laundry Center by off-duty firefighter

Quick action and fast MCFR response prevent injuries and major damage at local laundry center.

Brown dog sitting in front of a fan indoors on a hot day.
Weather Updates
5 months ago
WORKWEEK WEATHER: Dangerous heat and daily storm chances in Ocala and Marion County

Afternoon highs feel like 108–112 degrees through Monday; increased thunderstorm activity expected midweek as tropical wave shows little development potential.

Close-up of a red lawn mower cutting green grass in a residential yard.
Local
5 months ago
Think twice before blowing grass into the street — it could harm more than your curb appeal

Seemingly harmless yard chores like mowing, fertilizing, or car washing can lead to illicit discharges, harming Marion County’s stormwater system and local waterways, officials warn.

Portrait of Joshua L. Mazur, composer of “In Willowbark Woods.”
Education
5 months ago
CF students bring instructor’s original musical “In Willowbark Woods” to life Aug. 1-3

Written and composed by adjunct instructor Joshua L. Mazur, the world premiere will be performed by College of Central Florida students at the Black Box Theatre in Ocala.

Streetlights shining in a residential neighborhood at dusk.
Community
5 months ago
Marion County approves MSBU rate hike for streetlighting in Kingsland Country

Homeowners in Whispering Pines and Forest Glen will see annual fee rise to $66 to keep neighborhood streetlights on through 2035 amid rising energy costs.

Judge points during courtroom sentencing as defendant in orange jumpsuit stands before the bench, surrounded by law enforcement and legal personnel.
Crime & Safety
5 months ago
Marion County man sentenced to prison after pleading no contest in high-speed pursuit case

Jeremy Donye Walker received six years in prison and four years of probation after a last-minute plea to charges including fleeing law enforcement and drug possession.

Exterior of The Ritz Historic Inn in Ocala with red awnings and teal lettering
Community
5 months ago
Helping heroes: Veterans to receive free clothing and essentials in Ocala

AT&T Veterans Network, Dinontas, and Volunteers of America of Florida to serve more than 250 local veterans with donated backpacks and support services on July 25.

The front entrance of Ocala’s City Hall in the background with “CITY HALL” displayed on an arch above the double door entrances on the left and right. There are short red brick walls in front of the entrance with stairs leading up to the doors on either side. In the foreground are trees on either side of the City Hall arch and a beige and blue horse statue facing left.
Local
5 months ago
Eight candidates enter Ocala’s special election after second qualifying window

Mayor Ben Marciano and Councilman Jay Musleh among those on Sept. 16 ballot; two candidates await petition verification.

Portrait of Larry Whitler, smiling slightly and wearing glasses and a patterned shirt
Features
5 months ago
Editorial: Remembering Larry Whitler, Ocala’s Gentle Giant of the airwaves

Larry Whitler, beloved Ocala radio host and artist, was killed in a crash at age 70. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, and community.

Youth actor dressed as Beetlejuice points toward the camera during a rehearsal at Ocala Civic Theatre.
Entertainment
5 months ago
OPENING NIGHT: Beetlejuice Jr. haunts the Ocala Civic Theatre stage this weekend only

Youth cast brings spooky laughs and musical mischief in Arts for All summer finale.

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