Ocala voters will head to the polls on Sept. 16 for a special municipal election to decide the mayor’s race and City Council seats in Districts 1, 3 and 5. The election was called after all original candidates were disqualified during the first qualifying period, triggering a rare second chance for contenders. Here’s your guide to the candidates, key dates, and where to cast your ballot.
Pig may be a little shy at first, but it doesn’t take long for his gentle spirit and big heart to shine through. This 6-month-old pup has been patiently waiting at the Humane Society of Marion County for a family to call his own. With his calm nature and playful bond with his best friend Dump Truck, Pig is proof that sometimes the sweetest surprises come with four paws and a wagging tail.
Ocala-based artist Seth Benzel one-man show is set to open Aug. 30 at the Appleton Museum of Art. Deconstructing Self will be on display until Jan. 4, 2026.
The City of Ocala and the Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership celebrated the expansion of the city’s skate park with a groundbreaking ceremony.
The Marion County Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval of a 151 single-family dwelling development at their meeting Aug. 25, 2025.
Business owners can improve their chances of securing financing by understanding how banks evaluate Character, Capacity, and Capital, preparing thorough financial records, and building strong relationships with lenders, says Cogent Bank President Nick Blaser.
The Ocala Downtown Market was transformed into a high-energy, pirate-and-mermaid-themed roller derby arena on Aug. 24 as fans cheered, costumes dazzled, and Ocala Roller Derby’s “Mermaids vs. Pirates” scrimmage delivered both thrilling athletic action and community spirit.
Several years into her sobriety, Logan Denzer decided to try nonalcoholic beer and mocktails while others around her drank real booze. “A lot of people feel out of place” when everyone else is imbibing, said the 27-year-old from Los Angeles, who considers these beverages “an excellent solution.”
A federal judge in Miami has refused to pause her order requiring the winding down of the immigration detention center in the Florida Everglades known as “Alligator Alcatraz” while the federal government appeals her ruling.
“Bugonia” is having its world premiere Thursday evening at the prestigious Venice Film Festival, where it’s in competition for the top prize, the Golden Lion. Focus Features is releasing the film in North American theaters on Oct. 24.
