Collage of nine Marion County Public Library System branches, including Belleview, Dunnellon, Freedom, Sankofa, and others, showcasing a mix of historic and modern library buildings under sunny skies.
Community
6 months ago
Silver Springs Shores to welcome new public library this fall

County leaders finalize name for long-awaited branch, promising expanded access to books, programs, and community resources.

Mugshot of Amy Linn Ramirez, a woman with shoulder-length dark curly hair, wearing an orange and white jail uniform, against a plain gray background.
Crime & Safety
6 months ago
Belleview woman sentenced to 5 years for filing fake deed in real estate scam

Amy Linn Ramirez claimed ownership of a home she never lived in or owned, leading to a jury conviction for property fraud in Marion County.

A man in a Hawaiian shirt stands at a dais with a microphone before a platform of people, with a room full of people behind him in an auditorium.
Local
6 months ago
Ocala residents divided over ICE agreement at heated city council meeting

Supporters call it a safety tool; critics fear it erodes trust and brings national politics into local policing.

Close-up of a golf club about to strike a golf ball on a tee with green grass in the background.
Sports
6 months ago
Pace matters: How Ocala golfers can keep the game fun for everyone

With local courses filling up, the Ocala Golf Club shares easy tips from the USGA to help players of all levels speed up play without sacrificing enjoyment.

Aerial photo of the City of Belleview splash pad with blue circular design, yellow water feature, and surrounding pavement and grass.
Entertainment
6 months ago
Splash into summer: Belleview’s upgraded splash pad is open for family fun

From water play to sun safety, the Wilma Loar Splash Pad is your go-to spot for cooling off with the kids.

Ocala water tower seen behind trees and lake at Tuscawilla Park on a clear day.
Local
6 months ago
Florida to ban fluoride in tap water: What it means for Ocala families

New law signed by Gov. DeSantis takes effect July 1, ending decades of fluoride use in public water systems.

A professionally dressed woman with short hair standing in front of a wall and door.
Community
6 months ago
From Navy chief to local leader: How Daisy Diaz is helping Marion County’s veterans thrive

Daisy Diaz has been named the new Marion County veteran services director, succeeding Jeffrey Askew.

Black and white photo showing a large crowd gathered outdoors under tall trees with hanging moss, watching a man standing and speaking on a raised platform, during an Emancipation Day celebration or public address in the early 20th century.
Community
6 months ago
“It’s about the people who were freed”: Florida Emancipation Day remembered after 157 years

Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano, Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward, and Secretary of State Cord Byrd help to remember the day formally known as Florida Emancipation Day.

Black dog wearing a harness sits upright on a brick walkway next to a shrub.
Project Pawsitivity
6 months ago
Sprite’s second chance: Marion Humane Society pup needs special chair to keep thriving

Young dog recovering after rare surgery; community support needed to help her stand tall.

Wildfire burning through dense, dry vegetation with heavy smoke filling the air and orange glow from flames.
Local
6 months ago
Outdoor burning halted today in Marion and nearby counties due to high fire risk

Florida Forest Service restricts burn authorizations in five counties as dry, windy weather raises fire danger.