A professional woman in a black blazer works at a laptop in a bright office, with an open notebook and calculator on the desk, focused on her financial documents.
Ask The Expert
2 months ago
Character, Capacity and Capital in Business Lending

Business owners can improve their chances of securing financing by understanding how banks evaluate Character, Capacity, and Capital, preparing thorough financial records, and building strong relationships with lenders, says Cogent Bank President Nick Blaser.

Exterior view of the Paddock Market building in Ocala, Florida, featuring a modern dark wood facade. In front of the entrance are two decorative metallic horse statues rearing up, positioned between two artificial white blossom trees. The sidewalk and street are visible in the foreground under a partly cloudy sky.
Local
2 months ago
Top Six Places Coming to Ocala in 2025

From sweet treats to sizzling hibachi, Ocala is set to welcome six exciting new spots in 2025 that promise to satisfy cravings and elevate local shopping and dining experiences.

Max Gagnon stands with the Marion County Fire Rescue team who pulled him from the wreckage of his truck after a life-threatening crash.
Business
2 months ago
Crash Survivor Reunites with Marion County First Responders Who Saved His Life

After surviving a catastrophic crash that left his vehicle crushed between two trees, Marion County resident Max Gagnon reunited this week with the emergency responders and hospital staff who saved his life.

BB Graphics and The WrapPros team members pose in front of their logo with a framed 2025 Best of the 352 award.
Features
3 months ago
BB Graphics & The WrapPros: Central Florida’s leader in vehicle wraps and branding for over 30 years

BB Graphics & The WrapPros, a Central Florida leader in vehicle wraps and branding for over 30 years, combines craftsmanship, speed, and community commitment from its Ocala and Crystal River locations.

The local advertising journey starts with being wanted by consumers.
Business
3 months ago
Boost Local Business: How to get wanted, get found and get chosen in Ocala Florida

Want more customers? Start with demand, not just visibility. A proven three-step ad strategy, Get Wanted – Get Found – Get Chosen, helps your business attract attention, show up where it matters, and win the sale. Here’s how local marketers are turning online awareness into real clicks, visits, calls, and searches. . . getting more sales.

Brisket, Fries, and beans from Big Lee's Barbecue
Local
3 months ago
Ocala’s Big Lee’s BBQ goes viral on TikTok, draws fans from Texas and beyond

A viral TikTok video has barbecue fans driving across state lines to try Big Lee’s in Ocala. What started as a tribute to a beloved uncle has become a must-visit destination, with pitmaster Rashad Jones earning national attention.

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital staff pose with cupcakes in celebration of stroke care award.
Local
3 months ago
HCA Florida Ocala and West Marion Hospitals earn national stroke care awards for excellence

Recognized by the American Heart Association, both Ocala hospitals have received Gold Plus honors for stroke treatment and diabetes care, marking over a decade of life-saving commitment.

Group photo of Douglas Law Firm attorneys and staff standing in front of the Ocala office building.
Features
3 months ago
Douglas Law Firm honored for excellence in Ocala: Trusted legal support for life’s biggest moments

Recognized across multiple categories, Douglas Law Firm offers compassionate, full-service legal guidance in family law, estate planning, criminal defense and more.

Marion County Growth Services building exterior with department names listed on facade.
Local
3 months ago
Planning board denies special use permit for Ocala micro-distillery over code violations

Fish Hawk Spirits faces permit setback as county cites unpermitted buildings, missed deadlines, and zoning concerns.

Front entrance of Paddock Mall in Ocala, Florida
Business
3 months ago
CBL Properties acquires Ocala’s Paddock Mall in major retail real estate deal

The longtime shopping center, last appraised at over $40 million, includes more than 90 stores and restaurants.