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.
Local
5 months ago
Marion County Sheriff’s Office shares must-know rules for a safe summer on the Rainbow River

From alcohol bans to boating laws, deputies want visitors to protect each other and the river.

Young woman sitting on a couch, holding a phone and talking to another person during a serious conversation about mental health.
Health & Wellness
5 months ago
Mental health can’t wait: Why the conversation must go beyond May

The Vines CEO urges Ocala residents to speak up, fight stigma, and support mental wellness year-round.

Close-up of an orange “Road Construction Ahead” warning sign against a clear blue sky.
Local
5 months ago
Traffic alert: NW 44th Avenue lane closures set for June 2–3

Crews to install underground utility line; delays expected near 3718 NW 44th Ave.

A large group of people of all ages walk along a paved trail surrounded by trees and grass during a RE/MAX 5K fundraiser at Baseline Road Trailhead Park.
Community
5 months ago
Run (or walk) for miracles as RE/MAX 5K returns to Ocala trails this Saturday

Join the community on May 31 for a scenic 5K supporting UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital through the Children’s Miracle Network.

Gator Joe’s Beach Bar & Grill parking lot with cars parked under moss-covered oak trees near Lake Weir.
Local
5 months ago
Gator Joe’s rolls out new beach access policies for summer 2025

Restaurant remains free to enter; changes focus on keeping the beach fun and family-friendly.

Conceptual aerial rendering of SECO Energy’s future operations facility, featuring multiple buildings, vehicle bays, and landscaped buffers, set in a rural area of Marion County.
Business
5 months ago
SECO plans new $70M operations center near CR 475A to boost storm response

Despite zoning concerns near Florida Horse Park, the electric co-op says the facility will speed up emergency service and honor the area’s rural character.

First responders from Ocala gather around tree that had fallen in the middle of a road, striking and killing a lawn service worker during a thunderstorm.
Local
5 months ago
Tree falls and kills lawn service worker in Ocala during thunderstorm

Police say 37-year-old Hunter Parks was killed after a section of a falling tree fell on top of him.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis stands at a podium labeled “Hurricane Preparedness” inside a Home Depot, with gas cans and portable generators on display behind him.
State
5 months ago
Hurricane season starts June 1, but Florida’s usual tax break for supplies is on hold

Gov. Ron DeSantis says a tax holiday will happen, just not before the season starts.

A smiling couple meets with a bank advisor, reviewing information on a tablet during a financial consultation.
Business
5 months ago
Seacoast Bank to acquire Citizens First Bank, The Villages’ hometown bank

Villagers can expect familiar service, with expanded products on the horizon.

People unveiling a green sign reading “John R. Hunt Pickleball Courts” at Coehadjoe Park, with a photo of Hunt and his wife displayed beneath it.
Community
5 months ago
John R. Hunt honored with dedicated pickleball courts at Coehadjoe Park

Family, county leaders, and local players gather to unveil a new sign celebrating the man behind Marion County’s growing pickleball community.