Marion County Growth Services building exterior with department names listed on facade.
Local
1 week ago
Marion County Planning and Zoning Recommends Approval for 151-Single-Family Dwelling Development

The Marion County Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval of a 151 single-family dwelling development at their meeting Aug. 25, 2025.

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
1 week 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.

Large group photo of the Ocala Roller Derby Pirates and Mermaids.
Community
1 week ago
Mermaids vs. Pirates: Ocala Roller Derby Brings Nautical Fun and Fierce Competition to Downtown 

The Ocala Downtown Market was transformed into a high-energy, pirate-and-mermaid-themed roller derby arena on Aug. 24 as fans cheered, costumes dazzled, and Ocala Roller Derby’s “Mermaids vs. Pirates” scrimmage delivered both thrilling athletic action and community spirit.

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
1 week 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.

A picture of a circle with letters and an insignia with images and lettering, with flags to the left and right.
Community
1 week ago
Marion County Chair Kathy Bryant’s State of the County Address Places and Emphasis on Progress with Purpose

Progress with Purpose, Marion County Board of County Commissioners Chair Kathy Bryant delivered the State of the County address at Belleview on the Rise on Aug. 26, 2025.

Entertainment
1 week ago
Estella Byrd Whitman Community Health Center 2nd Annual Taste of The Town Fundraiser

The Estella Byrd Whitman Community Health Center is gearing up for its second annual Taste of the Town fundraiser, bringing together 19 local restaurants, food trucks, and beverage vendors for an evening of food, fun, and community. Set for September 12, 2025, at the Ocala Downtown Market.

Four men sitting behind a wood dais, with carpeting in the foreground, three flags on each side of a large insignia with an image and lettering in the background.
Community
1 week ago
Florida Department of Transportation gives update on Pine Avenue and SR 40 Intersection Project at Ocala/Marion County Transportation Planning Organization meeting

The Florida Department of Transportation provided an update on the Pine Avenue and SR 40 project during the Ocala/Marion County Transportation and Planning Organization meeting.

A group of well-dressed people standing behind a ribbon with a man in a doctor's smock with a large pair of scissors, with balloons in the background and lights overhead.
Community
1 week ago
Ribbon Cutting Marks Expansion Milestone for HCA Florida West Marion Hospital with State-of-the-Art Patient tower

HCA Florida West Marion Hosptial held a ribbon cutting Aug. 26, 2025, for its new state-of-the-art patient tower.

MCPS sign with motivational message on grassy roadside in Ocala under partly cloudy skies.
Education
1 week ago
Celebrating 33 Years of Service: Chief Financial Officer Boston-Ellis Retires from Marion County Public Schools

Theresa Boston-Ellis Marion County Public Schools chief financial officer is retiring from the school district after 33 years on Aug. 29, 2025.

Well-dressed people holding a giant check, with balloons festooned over an entrance way.
Community
1 week ago
HCA Healthcare Foundation present’s a $25,000 Check to the United Way of Marion County

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