News from Ocala and Marion County

(OCALA, FL.) Feb. 19, 2026 – This morning, Ocala Fire Rescue (OFR) held the official groundbreaking ceremony for Station #8, a new facility designed to enhance emergency response in Ocala’s growing northwest corridor. City leaders, council members, CEP representatives, and senatorial aides joined the celebration. The station’s location was strategically chosen for its accessibility to I-75 […]

By Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc. At Stirrups ‘n Strides, we see something truly special happen every day — moments of courage, joy, and transformation that begin the moment a rider meets a horse. But what exactly is therapeutic riding, and how do horses help people heal? What Is Therapeutic Riding? Therapeutic riding is […]

Sent on Behalf of the Marion County Republican Executive Committee (MCREC) Dear Board Member Subject: Promises Made / Promises Broken The school board made a commitment to the Marion County citizens that it would conduct a national search to fill the leadership role of School Superintendent. This commitment was discarded, as honestly noted with concern […]

By Tom James ‘We All Have Hidden Potential’ Mireyli Hernandez, Ameris Bank Merriam-Webster describes art as “a personal, unanalyzable creative power” and “the faculty of executing well what one has devised.” Art comes in an infinite number of forms, as Mireyli Hernandez proves. “My artistic inspiration,” she says. “comes to life through welded metal art.” […]

OCALA, Fla. (January 15, 2026) – The Reilly Arts Center welcomes a variety of national and local artists for performances of rock, jazz, classical and more. Unless otherwise indicated, events are held at the Reilly Arts Center located at 500 NE 9th St. Ocala, FL 34470.  Tickets can be purchased at reillyartscenter.com or by contacting […]

Fundraising Gala The College of Central Florida Foundation will host its annual Night at the Farm fundraising gala on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 6-8:30 p.m. at the CF Vintage Barn, 4020 … Continue reading “CF Foundation invites community to Night at the Farm fundraising gala” AdventHealth cuts ribbon on new freestanding emergency department meant […]

Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026 | 1 – 7 p.m. Gates Open: 12:30 p.m. Show Starts: 1:30 p.m. Citizens’ Circle | 151 SE Osceola Ave. Join us for the third annual Brick City Bluegrass Festival in beautiful downtown Ocala, Florida! This family-friendly outdoor music festival features dynamic bluegrass bands including nationally recognized artists, creating an unforgettable […]

Dr. Matthew Cretul, Marion County’s legislative manager provided the Marion County Board of County Commissioners with a legislative update in advance of the beginning the of 2026 Florida legislative session. Marion County and FDOT approved a utility subordination agreement to address how existing utility infrastructure will be handled during construction of the I-75/  interchange. (Marion […]

Take the following precautions to prevent rabies exposure: Immunize your pets and livestock based on your veterinarian’s recommended schedule. Keep pets under direct supervision and on a leash, and keep livestock secured on your property. If an animal bites your pet or livestock, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately and contact Marion County Animal Servicesat […]

Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center brought the magic of the 1950s back to life at this year’s vibrant Sock Hop fundraiser. From poodle skirts and saddle shoes to leather jackets and slicked-back hair, guests stepped into a night of pure nostalgia—all for a meaningful cause. with casino tables, silent auctions, a Chinese auction, and […]

By Tom James ‘We All Have Hidden Potential’ Mireyli Hernandez, Ameris Bank Merriam-Webster describes art as “a personal, unanalyzable creative power” and “the faculty of executing well what one has devised.” Art comes in an infinite number of forms, as Mireyli Hernandez proves. “My artistic inspiration,” she says. “comes to life through welded metal art.” […]

By Matt McCormick When you’re new to a role, especially one rooted in community and connection, the best place to start is by listening. Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to meet with business leaders, partners, and stakeholders across Ocala and Marion County. Those conversations have been invaluable—not only in understanding where […]

By TomL I agree the county needs the money for infra structure. The only answer to the County tax is Impact fees, not for the builder but paid by newcomers.The newcomers are moving in… No Stampeding in here by the thousands. Crowding our roads and some times being disrespectful to current residents. The people wanting […]

By Tom James ‘Leadership In Its Purest Form’ Alex Sosa, B.B. Graphics “Flying influences everything I do in life, including how I run my business.” CEP partner Alex Sosa draws clear parallels between how he runs B.B. Graphics and how he approaches aviation. “Being a captain teaches you leadership in its purest form,” he says, […]