Silhouetted firefighters stand near utility vehicles amid thick smoke and bright lights during nighttime wildfire response in the Ocala National Forest.
Local
6 months ago
UPDATE: Wildfire near Salt Springs grows to 60 acres as crews build containment lines

U.S. Forest Service deploys air and ground units; smoke impacts continue along FL-19 and CR 314.

Wild mustangs in pens at Southeastern Livestock Pavilion during Ocala adoption event.
Local
6 months ago
Final chance to adopt a wild mustang or burro in Ocala—event ends Saturday

More than 100 horses and burros are still looking for homes at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion this weekend.

A white dog in a black harness and a blue "Adopt Me" lease sits on the floor with its eyes closed and its tongue sticking out while being pet by a woman behind it in floral black and white pants.
Project Pawsitivity
6 months ago
Meet Shelly: This sweet lap dog is ready to smother you in love

Looking for the perfect cuddle buddy? Meet Shelly, a 5-year-old lap-loving dog at Marion County Animal Services. With a heart full of love and a smile that never fades, Shelly is ready to find her forever home.

Hunter and Dupree of Wind-FM smiling on stage with a cheering audience behind them at the Reilly Arts Center.
Entertainment
6 months ago
Feel the thunder: Pure Zeppelin tribute rocks the Reilly this Saturday

Wind-FM brings the power and magic of Led Zeppelin to life with a high-energy performance that promises a “Whole Lotta Love.”

A scenic view of Rainbow River in Ocala, Florida, with clear blue water flowing gently over rocky banks surrounded by lush green trees under a bright, sunny sky.
Weather Updates
6 months ago
WEEKEND WEATHER: Hot days ahead, perfect for a spring dip

Ocala heats up this weekend—cool off in our natural springs and stay hydrated if you’re out in the sun.

Group of people running together outdoors during a community fun run on a sunny day.
Community
6 months ago
Gainesville fun run aims to help local students get career training

Radiant Credit Union’s Rays of Hope Foundation will host a 5K at Depot Park to raise money for vocational scholarships.

Side-by-side mugshots of Dianely Torres, a young woman with red hair and facial acne, wearing a striped jail uniform; one image shows her wearing glasses, the other without.
Crime & Safety
6 months ago
Former Marion County substitute teacher faces additional charges in child exploitation case

Investigators say 24-year-old Dianely Torres admitted to a sexual relationship with a student and may have more victims.

Mayor Ben Marciano speaks at a press conference with Ocala Police Department officials in front of a police emblem.
Community
6 months ago
Mayor Ben Marciano shares vision and achievements with Ocala Metro CEP Ambassadors

From community policing to mental health and downtown development, Mayor Marciano outlines bold plans for Ocala’s future while celebrating recent progress.

A KISS tribute band performs on stage under dramatic red lighting, with smoke effects and large black balloons floating above the audience. The band members wear classic KISS makeup and costumes, and the stage is decorated with illuminated 'KISS' lettering and stacked speaker props.
Entertainment
6 months ago
Best ways to spend this weekend: Music, markets, and family fun

Kick off your summer early with the best weekend events in Ocala and North Central Florida—from live music and BBQ festivals to immersive farm fun for the whole family.

Damaged car hauler with crushed cab and dislodged vehicles leans against a guardrail after a crash on I-75 in Ocala at night.
Local
6 months ago
Late-night crash on I-75 blocks all northbound lanes near SR 40 in Ocala

Ocala Fire Rescue says no one was hurt after a car hauler and work trucks collided, spilling fuel and shutting down the interstate.