Covered pedestrian hybrid beacon signal installed over State Road 200 near Ocean Buffet in Ocala.
Local
2 months ago
New pedestrian signals and safety upgrades coming to Ocala’s State Road 200

FDOT installing three pedestrian hybrid beacons and traffic improvements along SR 200 to enhance safety, reduce crashes, and improve pedestrian access near schools and businesses.

Aerial view of a partially constructed section of the Cross Florida Barge Canal cutting through forested land in central Florida.
Local
2 months ago
Defunct Ocala: Cross Florida Barge Canal left scars, stories, and a lasting legacy of ‘what ifs’

The ambitious project promised prosperity but ended in controversy, paving the way for today’s Cross Florida Greenway.

Meghan Magamoll receives the Unbridled Spirit Award from Consortium president Mary Chance while holding a bouquet of red roses in Ocala.
Education
2 months ago
Meghan Magamoll honored with inaugural ‘Unbridled Spirit Award’ at Ocala education retreat

Public Education Foundation of Marion County director recognized for joyful leadership and unwavering commitment by the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks at a podium flanked by law enforcement and military officials during a press conference.
State
2 months ago
New Florida laws take effect July 1: Here’s what you need to know

From capital punishment changes to school safety rules, animal cruelty registries, and tenant rights, over 70 new laws will impact Floridians starting July 1.

Gregory C. Harrell seated at his desk in an office with an American flag and blinds in the background.
State
2 months ago
Marion County Clerk Gregory Harrell named President-Elect of Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers

Harrell to represent Marion County on FCCC Executive Committee for 2025–2026, marking his fourth year of state-level leadership.

UF mascots Albert and Alberta reach out to touch a horse inside a veterinary stall at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.
Health & Wellness
2 months ago
UF researchers seek Central Florida horse owners for groundbreaking arthritis pain study

Equine-focused UF study aims to improve early detection and treatment of joint pain in horses — and potentially humans.

Controlled burn with visible flames and smoke in a forested area of Goethe State Forest.
Local
2 months ago
Prescribed burns underway today in Levy and Marion counties

Fire crews conduct controlled burns in Goethe and Indian Lake State Forests to restore ecosystem health.

A vehicle is fueled at a gas station as prices continue to fluctuate across Florida.
State
2 months ago
Florida gas prices surge amid Middle East tensions, then ease slightly

State average climbs to $3.15 before dropping to $3.11; Ocala drivers find lowest price at $2.93 per gallon.

Miss Ocala 2025 Caroline Schapansky and Miss Ocala Teen 2025 Madalyn Covington smile beside studio microphones, wearing red dresses and crowns.
Community
2 months ago
Miss Ocala and Miss Teen Ocala head to Lakeland for 2025 Miss Florida competition

Caroline Schapansky and Madalyn Covington represent Marion County in a weeklong celebration of scholarship, service, and talent at the Miss Florida stage.

Mugshot of Dimeco Henderson, the first person in Florida facing the death penalty under the state’s new capital sexual battery law.
Crime & Safety
3 months ago
Florida to pursue death penalty in child rape case for first time under new law

Putnam County prosecution marks historic use of expanded capital punishment in non-homicide case.