A group of people gathers outside a wooden barn during a farm tour or educational event, watching as a presenter interacts with a chestnut horse in a fenced area. Trees and greenery surround the scene under a partly cloudy sky.
Business
3 months ago
New training center, drone program, and business incubator fuel Ocala’s growth

The Ocala Metro CEP is celebrating milestones in economic growth, including a drone technology partnership for students, its Business Impact Incubator, and plans for a new technical training center.

Thomas Butler presents at a county commission meeting in Ocala to support the Bus Brigade school supply drive.
Education
3 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.

Front view of the Appleton Museum of Art in Ocala with event banners and fountain in foreground.
Community
3 months ago
Unlock art, events, and exclusive perks — Appleton Museum memberships now 20% off through July 31

Act fast to save on all membership levels at Ocala’s top art destination and gain access to hundreds of museums nationwide.

Students seated in a lecture hall taking notes during class.
Education
3 months ago
Marion County students score big: FAST test gains show record academic growth across grades

From reading to math and history, local students outpaced state averages with double-digit improvements on Florida’s year-round progress monitoring tests.

Large red "CF" sculpture on College of Central Florida campus with Purple Star Campus designation badge overlay.
Education
3 months ago
College of Central Florida earns Purple Star Campus designation for veteran support

CF recognized by Florida Department of Education for its commitment to student veterans and military families through dedicated services, peer support, and education benefits guidance.

Scientist prepares pine stem sample for imaging during pitch canker research at UF.
Education
3 months ago
UF researchers use Hurricane Helene data to track pitch canker spread in pine forests

With federal funding, UF/IFAS scientists study how hurricane winds may worsen fungal disease outbreaks in Southeastern timberlands, aiming to protect the region’s $100B forestry economy.

Three young girls wearing backpacks walk hand-in-hand down a tree-lined path.
Community
3 months ago
Back to School Community Giveback returns July 26 to support 6,000+ Marion County students

With free backpacks, school supplies, and vital resources at multiple locations across Marion County, this collaborative event empowers families ahead of the new school year.

Three high school girls with hands over their hearts reciting the Pledge of Allegiance in front of an American flag.
Education
3 months ago
Belleview VFW invites students to enter $35K Voice of Democracy essay contest

Local high schoolers can win scholarships and a trip to D.C. by submitting a patriotic audio essay by Oct. 31.

Overhead view of a family sitting at a wooden table using various digital devices including a laptop, tablets, and smartphones.
Education
3 months ago
Alachua County Public Schools launching new websites, messaging system June 30

District updates include new website address, improved communication tools for families, staff, and students ahead of the new school year.

Marion County Public Schools sign with slogan "Helping Every Student Succeed" against a blue sky.
Education
3 months ago
Marion County Public Schools earns eight national honors for standout PR campaigns

NSPRA recognizes MCPS with Golden Achievement and media excellence awards for creative, strategic communication across schools.