Community
9 months ago
Ocala Royal Dames to host “Night of a Million Dreams” gala to support cancer research

Sponsors are needed now for an evening of elegance, philanthropy, and entertainment to raise funds for cancer research and education on March 29, 2025.

2025 Marion County Spelling Bee Champion Ava Mai and Runner-Up Elias Javelona (both center) pose with (from left) MCPS’s Dr. Danielle Brewer, Liberty Middle Principal Reuben “Bo” Williams, Howard Middle Principal Suzette Parker, and Spelling Bee Director Mark Ingram after the competition at Marion Technical Institute in Ocala, Fla., on Tuesday.
Education
9 months ago
Liberty Middle School’s Ava Mai wins 2025 Marion County Spelling Bee after 11 rounds

Eighth grader secures championship title with the word “derivative” as students from 11 schools compete in annual spelling event.

The 85th annual Southeastern Youth Fair has activities and events scheduled through March 1.
Local
9 months ago
Southeastern Youth Fair kicks off 85th anniversary with “Footloose at the Fair” theme in Ocala

Marion County’s beloved fair runs through March 1, showcasing 4-H and FFA youth with livestock shows, home arts exhibits, and skill-based competitions.

Community
9 months ago
Pay it forward for prom: Marion County Sheriff’s Office collecting formalwear for local teens

Donate gently used prom dresses, sport coats, and dress shoes to help high school students enjoy a memorable prom night.

Local
9 months ago
Marion County opens grant applications for substance abuse programs

Local agencies can apply for funding to support drug and alcohol prevention and treatment programs through the Marion County Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Trust Fund.

Community
9 months ago
Why microchipping your pet is essential for safety and reunification

Keeping your pet’s microchip information updated increases the chances of a safe return if they ever go missing.

Order your flats of strawberries early from Habitat for Humanity of Marion County's Ocala Strawberry Festival before they sellout.
Entertainment
9 months ago
Habitat Ocala Strawberry Festival returns with car show, live entertainment, and family fun

Enjoy a day of classic cars, fresh strawberries, live music, and exciting activities at the 11th annual Habitat Ocala Strawberry Festival on March 1, 2025.

Kristy Rowland, 2024-2025 Annual Giving Campaign chair; Robert Haight, CEO and president of United Way of Marion County; Alan Keesee, CEO of HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and United Way of Marion County Executive Committee board chair; Kaitlyn Wilson-Butler, director of communications and community engagement for HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital; and Bill Thompson, manager of communications and community engagement for HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital, gather in support of the inaugural Children’s Charity Classic.
Community
9 months ago
HCA Florida hospitals sponsor first-ever Children’s Charity Classic to support local nonprofits

The inaugural event, hosted by United Way of Marion County, aims to raise $100,000 for children’s charities through an equestrian-themed competition.

Local
9 months ago
Precautionary boil water notice issued for Golden Holiday Mobile Home Park on Feb. 20

Marion County Utilities advises residents to boil water before consumption due to scheduled water main maintenance.

A team of utility lineworkers competes in the 2025 Lineman Rodeo at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Fla., showcasing their skills in safety, precision, and teamwork.
Community
9 months ago
Experience the 2025 Lineman Rodeo Competition at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala

Watch Florida’s top utility lineworkers showcase their skills in an action-packed, family-friendly event hosted by Ocala Electric Utility on March 1.