Five representatives from HCA Florida Healthcare and Interfaith Emergency Services pose with donated hygiene items outside Interfaith’s Ocala building.
Community
4 months ago
HCA Florida hospitals donate hygiene supplies to Interfaith Emergency Services ahead of hurricane season

HCA Florida Ocala and West Marion hospitals continue their support of Interfaith with a summer donation of essential hygiene items to protect vulnerable residents in Marion County.

Orange and white kitten with wide eyes looking at the camera inside a shelter enclosure.
Project Pawsitivity
4 months ago
Playful, purring, and patiently waiting: Meet Rubis, the mystery kitty who’s ready for his forever home

Despite a mysterious respiratory condition, 9-month-old Rubis remains full of life, love, and play—and he’s finally ready to find his forever family in Marion County.

Larry Johnson smiling while holding the City of Ocala key in a small plastic package.
Features
4 months ago
Part 2: Rev. Leroy Johnson took on the KKK and helped Ocala rise above hate

Armed with courage, a revolver, and a heart for his community, this fearless pastor and businessman protected Ocala from violence and built lasting opportunities for generations to come.

Emily Johnson speaks at a podium during an Ocala City Council meeting as attendees listen from the audience.
Community
4 months ago
Ocala approves major expansion of Heathbrook development; hundreds of homes now protected under special district

City Council votes 5-0 to expand Ridge at Heathbrook CDD, unlocking nearly 30 more acres for growth and shifting infrastructure control to a special-purpose district.

Spectators sit under white tents at night watching a vibrant fireworks display light up the sky with bursts of red, green, yellow, and purple above a tree-lined event area.
Entertainment
4 months ago
Your ultimate 4th of July weekend guide: Fireworks, food, and free fun across Ocala and North Central Florida

Rain or shine, here’s where to find the best Independence Day events—from explosive fireworks to free museum days and small-town celebrations.

Rev. Leroy Johnson dressed in a suit and tie, standing indoors.
Features
4 months ago
Part 1: How Rev. Leroy Johnson defied racism to build a legacy in Ocala

From Harlem hustle to hometown hero, this trailblazing pastor and businessman overcame hate and hardship to uplift Ocala’s Black community—his story begins here.

Vintage black car parked outside the historic Ma Barker House in Bradford County, Florida.
Local
4 months ago
DeSantis greenlights $3M+ for Marion County projects: Historic Ma Barker House, clean water in Lowell, and NW 49th upgrades

Governor Ron DeSantis approves key Marion County priorities in the 2025 state budget, delivering millions for heritage preservation, clean drinking water, and safer roads.

AAA Tow to Go promotional image with tow truck, large car key, fireworks, and service details.
National
4 months ago
AAA reactivates ‘Tow to Go’ to prevent impaired driving during Independence Day weekend

Free service offers confidential rides and tows for impaired drivers in Florida and 10 other states from July 4–7

Crowd watching fireworks light up the night sky at Tavares July 4th event.
Entertainment
4 months ago
Tavares plans unforgettable July 4th celebration with live music, and fireworks

From a seaplane flyover to food trucks, kids’ activities, and a concert by The HOOTZ, this free Independence Day event has something for everyone.

Thomas Butler presents at a county commission meeting in Ocala to support the Bus Brigade school supply drive.
Education
4 months ago
Mission: Bus Brigade returns — Marion County aims to collect 30,000+ school supplies for students in need

Help support homeless and struggling students across Marion County by donating backpacks, hygiene items, and more at local drop-off sites through July.

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