We need to hold our Ocala and Marion County leaders accountable
In the past few days, Ocala-News.com has received at least a dozen letters to the editor from residents sharing thoughts on Ocala and Marion County’s development and its leadership. Here are some of those letters:. “The people and government of Ocala and surrounding areas might be wise to focus...
Marion couple among finalists vying for America’s Favorite Couple
A Marion County couple has beat out dozens of other couples and are now among the five finalists in their group vying to become America’s Favorite Couple, which comes with a $20,000 prize and a story in Variety magazine. Alisha and Daniel Hart are currently third in their group...
Villagers should enjoy priority access at the town squares
The squares are becoming overcrowded and often, there are no chairs/seats available. I had always believed that the original intent was to provide entertainment for the residents of The Villages. I understand that the entertainment is not funded by the amenity fees. However, there are so many non-Villagers attending...
Central Florida Man Convicted in Murder over Insurance Money Case
A Central Florida man was recently in a murder over insurance money case. After a three-day trial, a Volusia County jury found defendant Perry Stanley guilty as charged of First-Degree Murder and Possession of Firearm by Convicted In-State Felon. Immediately following the verdict, he was sentenced to mandatory life...
Lake City mother arrested for leaving 4 young children alone
Clay County Sheriff’s deputies have arrested a 14-year-old boy after he told them he killed his parents in their home. Union County Commissioners meet to consider proposal for a crematorium in Worthington Springs. Updated: 7 hours ago. The current proposal seeks zoning approval to allow a crematorium to operate...
Local girl wins state title
Armed with a bright smile and an eye to the future, Ellysa Resnick, a youngster from Marion County, captured the National American Miss Florida Princess title for ages 4 to 6 in the Florida state pageant in late July in Orlando. She also received awards for Fun Fitness, 1st Runner-up;...
Marion County Woman’s Signature Fraud Scheme Unravels, Ends In Felony Conviction
MARION COUNTY, Fla. – A Marion County woman was found guilty on July 30, 2025, for her role in a petition fraud scheme that undermined the democratic process. Maria Guadalupe Bautista, 26, was convicted on 13 counts of Fraudulent Use of Personal Information after a jury trial. She now faces a minimum-mandatory prison...
Visitor to The Villages surprised at easy access to amenities
Holly Loussaert came to visit Florida’s Friendliest Hometown on the Lifestyle Preview Plan offered through The Villages. She said she was somewhat surprised at how easily she could access amenities. “I walked right into the pools. No questions asked, so I could have been just anyone,” Loussaert said. “That’s...
Patient undergoing involuntary examination spits on security guard at UF Health
A Homosassa man was arrested for spitting on a security guard who held him down during an involuntary examination for intoxication at UF Health. An officer responded to a battery involving 48-year-old Stephen Michael Blake at UF Health Leesburg Hospital, located at 600 E Dixie Ave., around 7:40 p.m. Saturday, July...
Long-awaited opening date this week for Costco in The Villages
The opening date is right around the corner for the long-awaited Costco in The Villages. The new store will be opening at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6 next to Hobby Lobby at Buffalo Ridge Plaza. After many years of Villagers’ waiting and hoping for a Costco, opening day is drawing...
