HCA Florida West Marion Hosptial held a ribbon cutting Aug. 26, 2025, for its new state-of-the-art patient tower.
Theresa Boston-Ellis Marion County Public Schools chief financial officer is retiring from the school district after 33 years on Aug. 29, 2025.
HCA Healthcare Foundation’s Healthier Tomorrow Fund presented the United Way of Marion County with a check for $25,000 at the HCA Florida West Marion Hospital on Aug. 26, 2025. Courtesy: Ben Baugh/352today
College football is back, and fans across Ocala are preparing for a packed opening weekend. With the Florida Gators kicking off their season in Gainesville and major matchups on the national stage, game-day excitement is building across Marion County.
Ocala-based Fish Hawk Spirits faces tough choices after its special use permit expired, with county officials pressing for major upgrades. The distillery has invested more than $4 million locally and employs six people, but meeting conditions could cost an additional $250,000.
The Marion County Commission voted unanimously to give Fish Hawk Spirits more time to address compliance issues after the company’s special use permit expired in 2024.
The Black Sheep on Broadway hosts a Pints 4 Paws charity event for the Humane Society of Marion County.
Ocala’s Jose Juarez has been appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis to the College of Central Florida District Board of Trustees. A longtime Marion County resident, Juarez is the CEO and founder of Victory Solutions, owner of BarbaCuban, and an active community leader involved in Leadership Florida and the Ocala-Silver Springs Rotary Club. His appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
Sheltering Hands Inc. hosted its 1st Annual Paddle Auction at Water Oak Country Club, drawing more than 125 attendees and raising nearly $6,000 to support its cat rescue programs. Proceeds will strengthen vital services, including Trap-Neuter-Return initiatives, low-cost spay/neuter surgeries, and adoption programs like Love for a Lifetime, which pairs senior cats with senior companions. The success of the event highlights the community’s commitment to animal welfare and ensures more cats find care, treatment, and forever homes.
The Barbie movie receives live audience engagement during screening at Marion Theatre Girls Night Out: Barbie Movie event.