Emily Johnson speaks at a podium during an Ocala City Council meeting as attendees listen from the audience.
Community
2 months ago
Ocala approves major expansion of Heathbrook development; hundreds of homes now protected under special district

City Council votes 5-0 to expand Ridge at Heathbrook CDD, unlocking nearly 30 more acres for growth and shifting infrastructure control to a special-purpose district.

Mugshot of Christopher Rivera, a 30-year-old man with dark hair and a beard, wearing a pink and white striped shirt, taken by the Marion County Sheriff's Office.
Crime & Safety
2 months ago
Ocala man charged with sexual battery on child in Marion County

Marion County detectives uncover disturbing allegations against Christopher Rivera, urging potential victims to come forward.

Spectators sit under white tents at night watching a vibrant fireworks display light up the sky with bursts of red, green, yellow, and purple above a tree-lined event area.
Entertainment
2 months ago
Your ultimate 4th of July weekend guide: Fireworks, food, and free fun across Ocala and North Central Florida

Rain or shine, here’s where to find the best Independence Day events—from explosive fireworks to free museum days and small-town celebrations.

Rev. Leroy Johnson dressed in a suit and tie, standing indoors.
Features
2 months ago
Part 1: How Rev. Leroy Johnson defied racism to build a legacy in Ocala

From Harlem hustle to hometown hero, this trailblazing pastor and businessman overcame hate and hardship to uplift Ocala’s Black community—his story begins here.

Vintage black car parked outside the historic Ma Barker House in Bradford County, Florida.
Local
2 months ago
DeSantis greenlights $3M+ for Marion County projects: Historic Ma Barker House, clean water in Lowell, and NW 49th upgrades

Governor Ron DeSantis approves key Marion County priorities in the 2025 state budget, delivering millions for heritage preservation, clean drinking water, and safer roads.

Mugshot of Hunter Destin following his arrest in Marion County, Florida
Crime & Safety
2 months ago
Convicted felon Hunter Destin caught after firing gun inside Marion County home, deputies say

Authorities say Destin fled the scene but was quickly located and arrested after allegedly firing a shot during a domestic disturbance.

AAA Tow to Go promotional image with tow truck, large car key, fireworks, and service details.
National
2 months ago
AAA reactivates ‘Tow to Go’ to prevent impaired driving during Independence Day weekend

Free service offers confidential rides and tows for impaired drivers in Florida and 10 other states from July 4–7

Crowd watching fireworks light up the night sky at Tavares July 4th event.
Entertainment
2 months ago
Tavares plans unforgettable July 4th celebration with live music, and fireworks

From a seaplane flyover to food trucks, kids’ activities, and a concert by The HOOTZ, this free Independence Day event has something for everyone.

Person snorkeling in shallow seagrass beds during scalloping season in Crystal River, Florida.
Local
2 months ago
Bay scallop season now open in Levy and Citrus counties

Recreational scalloping underway in Cedar Key, Crystal River, and Homosassa through Sept. 24.

Thomas Butler presents at a county commission meeting in Ocala to support the Bus Brigade school supply drive.
Education
2 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.

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