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
5 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.

Florida celebrates with the trophy after their win against the Houston in the national championship at the Final Four of the NCAA college basketball tournament, Monday, April 7, 2025, in San Antonio.
Sports
5 months ago
Walter Clayton Jr.’s defensive stop gives Florida its 3rd national title with 65-63 win over Houston

Florida overcomes late deficit as Clayton’s last-second stop secures thrilling national championship win.

Close-up of a "Detour Ahead" sign with traffic cones and road construction in the background.
Local
5 months ago
Expect delays: Lane closure planned near SummerGlen this Wednesday

Busy drivers are urged to use alternate routes as waterline work impacts traffic April 9.

Chief Mike Balken speaking into a microphone at a community forum, with audience members in the foreground.
Community
5 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
5 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.

Close-up of an orange “Road Construction Ahead” warning sign against a clear blue sky.
Local
5 months ago
Nightly I-75 lane closures in Sumter County may affect Marion County commuters

FDOT to close lanes April 6–10 and April 13–17 for striping work as part of ongoing I-75 improvement project.

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
5 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
5 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
5 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.

Dense fog limits visibility on I-75 near Ocala, Fla., early Monday, April 7, 2025. Motorists were urged to drive with caution as low visibility affected morning commutes across the region.
Weather Updates
5 months ago
WORKWEEK WEATHER: Foggy start to Monday, storms by night, then sunshine ahead

Fog may slow down Monday morning commutes around Ocala. Storms arrive tonight, but the rest of the week looks mostly dry and pleasant.