A “Road Closed Ahead” sign stands in front of The Gathering Café on Broadway Street in downtown Ocala, where ongoing construction is impacting access and foot traffic.
Community
7 months ago
Downtown Ocala construction is hurting local businesses: Here’s how you can help in just a few minutes

From quick stops for coffee to sharing a post online, small actions from the community can make a big difference for struggling downtown shops and cafés.

Chief Mike Balken speaking into a microphone at a community forum, with audience members in the foreground.
Community
7 months ago
Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken is cracking down on distracted driving, pushing for hands-free law

Chief Balken says rise in traffic stops reveals serious safety issues, including distracted driving and risks from autonomous vehicles.

Florida forward Alex Condon and forward Thomas Haugh celebrate their win against Auburn in the national semifinals at the Final Four of the NCAA college basketball tournament, Saturday, April 5, 2025, in San Antonio.
Community
7 months ago
Gator fans invited to watch NCAA Championship at the O’Dome

Exactech Arena will host a free watch party Monday night as Florida takes on Houston for the national title.

Students from the CF Collegiate Academy pose by the large CF letters on the College of Central Florida Ocala Campus. The academy allows high school students to earn college credits while completing their diploma.
Education
7 months ago
Discover how students can earn college credits while still in middle or high school

College of Central Florida invites students and parents to Dual Enrollment Discovery Night for a campus tour, pizza, and helpful info from current students.

Yellow crime scene tape with blurred police lights in the background
Local
7 months ago
Ocala man killed in pedestrian crash on US 441 near SE 3rd Avenue

Florida Highway Patrol says the 52-year-old was standing in the right lane when he was struck Sunday night.

An artist’s rendering shows the new Citra Fire Rescue Station in Citra, Florida, which opens April 7 to improve emergency services and accommodate the area’s growth.
Local
7 months ago
Citra welcomes new fire rescue station with modern features

Marion County Fire Rescue unveils state-of-the-art facility to improve emergency response and serve the growing Citra community.

A large crowd cheers and raises their hands during a nighttime outdoor concert featuring Brantley Gilbert. The stage is lit with red and blue lights, with giant video screens on both sides showing the performers. The backdrop reads “Brantley Gilbert Off the Rails Tour 2024.”
Entertainment
7 months ago
Rock the Country moves to Florida Horse Park, bringing big names and big crowds

Get ready for big-name bands, fun for the whole family, and a weekend that’s great for local businesses

Beer taps line the bar at Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar in Ocala, FL, offering a wide selection of local and national brews just in time for National Beer Day on April 7, 2025.
Local
7 months ago
Raise a glass, Ocala: Celebrate National Beer Day tomorrow with perfect local pairings

From frosty pints to seafood and pizza, local favorites Shuckin’ Shack and Mellow Mushroom serve up brews worth toasting.

Artist Patricia Teal offered a variety of paintings downtown during First Friday Art Walk in Ocala, FL on Friday, April 4, 2025.
Entertainment
7 months ago
ICYMI: Downtown Ocala bursts with color and fun at First Friday Art Walk | PHOTOS

Families enjoy art, music, and kid-friendly entertainment during lively monthly event through May.

A close-up of ripe peaches evokes the magical fruit at the heart of James and the Giant Peach, a youth theater production running April 11–13 at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center in Ocala, Fla.
Entertainment
7 months ago
James and the Giant Peach rolls into Ocala for a magical family adventure

The Academy at Ocala Civic Theatre presents a youth production full of whimsy, wonder, and larger-than-life fun April 11–13.

1 87 88 89 90 91 172