Home / News / Government & Politics / Local Government water features and public art to City Square Park space The Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread MARION — Uptown Marion is set to take the next step of its ongoing transformation with the opening of the city’s new Central Plaza City leaders and community members this week will celebrate substantial completion of the roughly $8.35 million project in the heart of Uptown Marion The plaza includes a refrigerated ice loop “This project is the crowning jewel of what we have been doing in terms of reinventing Uptown Marion into a vibrant destination,” said Mayor Nick AbouAssaly “I’m sure there’ll be additional projects in the future but this to me feels like a milestone moment where we see that vision come to life.” The project itself was supported through a mix of fundraising city funds and grant allocations — including a $3 million Destination Iowa grant awarded to the city using American Rescue Plan Act funds The centerpiece of the Central Plaza is the ice-skating loop constructed in the center of the square where visitors will be able to rent skates to glide around the oblong sheet of refrigerated ice during the winter months The unique amenity will double as a seating area and gathering space in the off season and one portion of the loop will transform into an interactive water feature each summer The ice loop itself is expected to make its debut this December “A lot of people have told me that Marion is set up like a Hallmark card and I really feel like that ice loop is going to be the icing on the cake,” said Marion Chamber of Commerce President Jill Ackerman “It’s going to be really fun — almost magical — to see it transform during the different seasons.” the nearby Depot Pavilion has been enclosed to offer an event space bathrooms and a warming area for the ice loop The iconic orange caboose that previously stood in City Square has been rehabbed and relocated to Draper Park Parks and Recreation Director Seth Staashelm said the decision to move the caboose was made to best highlight Marion’s historic ties to the railroad through the creation of a new park specifically dedicated to honoring that history The caboose was removed from the park in June of 2023, at which point it was repaired and revamped prior to its eventual relocation to Draper Park last fall The park is named for former City Council member Paul Draper AbouAssaly and Ackerman both expressed their belief that the Central Plaza project will contribute to the ongoing and future growth of Uptown Marion City Square Park sat mostly unused unless there was a preplanned event taking place With the additional development and increased amenities he said the goal is to see a more steady stream of visitors “No one was going (to City Square Park) for a picnic or just to hang out It was mostly being used for festivals or other large events,” he said “We wanted to take the opportunity to reinvent the space … and make it a destination for not only Marion Those visitors in turn would be able to easily access and patronize the myriad surrounding Uptown businesses The plaza itself is situated in the heart of the district and is flanked on three sides by commercial development The land to the south is the open plot previously filled by the Nancy A. Miller Public Library that was razed after sustaining damage in the 2020 derecho, and the city already has expressed its intent to develop the land in a way that complements the plaza project In collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce the city will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday to mark the substantial completion of the Central Plaza project some work remains to truly complete all the promised improvements A new sculpture will be installed this June, for example, and the installation of commemorative brick pavement on the plaza’s southeast side is delayed until construction is complete on the nearby Broad and Main building on Sixth Street. you get to a point where the majority of it is completed but there’s still a few parts left to go,” Staashelm said we’re just really excited about the vibrancy this will bring to the Uptown area.” The city of Marion and the Marion Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4 p.m Wednesday to celebrate the city’s new Central Plaza The event is free and open to the public and will celebrate the substantial completion of the roughly $8.35 million project Linn County Government Reporter for The Gazette The Gazette has been informing Iowans with in-depth local news coverage and insightful analysis for over 140 years independent journalism with a subscription today © 2025 The Gazette | All Rights Reserved How much did that house sell for? Deed transfers in Ocala/Marion: March 3-9, 2025Ocala Star-BannerThis is a list of deed transfers of $80,000 or more in Marion County The list is presented in alphabetical order by subdivision name — if there is a subdivision listed in the deed there is a subdivision listed but our system is not picking it up After the subdivision name comes the seller and buyer (presented last name first) and then the sales price Please direct any questions to calendar@starbanner.com  Deed transfers of $80,000 or more as recorded with the Clerk of the Circuit Court Autumn Glen: G2G Development LLC to DR Horton Inc Autumn Glen: DR Horton Inc to Shannon David Allen Bel Lago: Vacante Nancy Jane to McCrae Jarry R Belleair: Zachary James Estates LLC to Bode William Harry Iv Belleview: Devries Danial A to Stahl Jessica Belleview: Southstate Bank N A to Sbkbefl001 LLC Belleview Heights Estates: Alert Homes LLC to Giunta James B Belleview Heights Estates: Tenico Construction Corp to Conrad Christine Belleview Heights Estates: Synergy Builders LLC to Whitlow Daniel G Belleview Hills Estates: Lake Ivanhoe Properties LLC to Perez David Mendoza Calesa Township: Colen Built Development LLCto Rodriguez Lydia Calesa Township: Colen Built Development LLCto Whalen Brendan Calesa Township: Colen Built Development LLCto Howard Clifford Wayne Jr Calesa Township: Colen Built Development LLCto Crossen Kandi Elizabeth Calesa Township: Colen Built Development LLCto Kyser William Calesa Township: Colen Built Development LLCto Witfill Stacy Candler Hills: Holdman Peter Robert to Houston Steven Neal Candler Hills: Coleman Stephanie to Newman William C Candler Hills: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Holbach Timothy J Candler Hills: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Hall Margaret Ann Candler Hills: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Mccullough Mark Candler Hills: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Galindez Juan Candler Hills: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Alavi Hossein Cedar Hill: Gibbons Mary Jane to Elder Planning Income Concepts LLC Cedar Hill: Miller Gabriel Eli to Jones Michael W Cedar Hill: Bil Investment Properties LLC to Roland Henry T III Cedar Hill: Elder Planning Income Concepts LLC to Forney Robert Cherrywood Estates: Dalessandro Diane to Hackett Iris Circle Square Woods: Brown Russell to Pare Mark W Circle Square Woods: Cobos Humberto to Brown Ronald R Circle Square Woods: Deignan Catherine Hord to Mathews Ellen J Copperleaf: Clayton Properties Group Inc to Ferreira Anthony Copperleaf: Clayton Properties Group Inc to Torres Joel Alexander Dalton Woods: Williams Jeromy Joe to Thom Diane S Tr Dorchester Estates: Adams Homes Of Northwest Florida Inc to Bowler Gary Thomas Fort King Hammock: Synergy Yoga Inc to Twin Essence Estates LLC Forest Lake: Fisher Stephen J to Hartsuiker Berend Grand Park: Lennar Homes LLC to Gp Ocala Vi LLC Grand Park: Lennar Homes LLC to Gp Ocala VI LLC Greenfields: Home Discounters LLC to Trans Global Financial LLC Tr Heath Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Grocki Joseph Michael Heath Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Serrano Javier Heath Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Esp Oc V LLC Heath Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Esp O V LLC Heath Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Rodriguez Moises Manuel Cardona HeathBrook/Heath Brook: Britenstine Spencer to Duran Yamil A Heritage Hills: Silver Ray Investments LLC to Fida Properties LLC Hidden Lake: Carter Benjamin L to Lopez Margarita Del Carmen Valldejuli Hidden Lake: Adams Homes Of Northwest Florida Inc to Fuentes Dora A Irish Acres: Irish Acres Acquisitions LLC to Coastal Homes & Remodeling Inc Irish Acres: Irish Acres Acquisitions LLC to Neatwood Properties LLC Irish Acres: Irish Acres Acquisitions LLC to Secure Built LLC Irish Acres: Irish Acres Acquisitions LLC to Atwood Stephen Michael Kingsland Ctry Ests Whisp Pines: Fiorentino Michael A to 5914 Sw 111Th Place LLC Kingsland Ctry Ests Whisp Pines: Gonzalez Ana to Manrique Jose Maria Kingsland Ctry Ests Whisp Pines: Chance Yolanda B to Chen Qiqi Lake Diamond: DR Horton Inc to Hotilal Parmeshwar Steven Lake Diamond: DR Horton Inc to Hallerberg Dylan Lake Tropicana Ranchettes: Biles Karen R to Sarty Marilyn Lake Weir Heights: Vanderbilt Mortgage & Finance Inc to Stuckey Mycalah Lake Weir Heights: Relyance Reliable Homes & More LLC to Carrier William Lake Weir Shores: Investor Nation Residential Capital LLC to De Bien Alfredo C Land O Lakes Estates: Trent Marvin D to Trent Elizabeth Elaine Laurel Commons: DR Horton Inc to Erickson Elias Jacob Laurel Commons: DR Horton Inc to Eskandar Ossama Gerges Legendary Trails: Center State Construction Inc to Suydam Kimblery Little Lake Weir: Adams Peter to Creech Charles S Ii Little Lake Weir Subdivision: Laclair Donald E to Costa Arsenio Jr Little Lake Weir Subdivision: Hall Robert K to Tucker Philip Charles Lk Diamond/Lk Diamond Golf & Ctry Club: Jimenez Manuel D to Edwards Sheffield Iii Longleaf Ridge: Lisec Garry to Lisec Garry Longleaf Ridge: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Hughes Jeffrey A Majestic Oaks: Smith Mary P to Depowski Sharon J Marion County: Morrison Harke April Maxine to Martinez Ivan Colon Marion County: McClanahan Bruce to Turner Kuettel Debra Marion County: Brown Joe C Tr to Ramirez Maria Johana Marion County: North Trust LLC to East Marion Utilites LLC Marion County: Hart Raleigh to Fuhs Allan E Marion County: Holman Gregory D to Everett John P Tr Marion County: Brown Joe C to Ramirez Maria Johanna Marion County: Fulk David Lee to Snyder Alice M Marion County: Gonzalez Quevedo Yvonne to Cardosa Medina Maria Teresa Marion County: Brennan Francis X III to Appugliese Michael Marion County: Cvigne Farms Limited to Vigne Thomas Joseph Marion County: American Properties & Management Group LLC to 520 Ne 82Nd Terrace LLC Marion County: Adams Lance V to Stidham Ashley Testa Marion County: Johnson Daniel Duane to North Young Guanaco Holding Corp Inc Marion County: Kurtz Michael J to Davidson Linda Marion County: Conway Pamela D to C&C Real Estate International LLC Marion County: Kuszlyk Jeanette to Rodriguez Jennifer Marion County: Prasad Dial to A&A Prasad LLC Marion County: Vigne Dawnita Lee to Vigne Dawnita Lee Marion County: Thorne Robert L III to Bryll Cheryl Lei Marion County: D&H Huracan Protection Dervice Corp to Hollifield Mark Marion County: Opendoor Property Trust I to Avellan Melina S Marion County: Brooks Cris Ann to Persad Deokie Marion County: Groff Thomas to Calderon Carlos A Marion County: Greater Equity LLC to Maher Brendan Marion County: Atwell James R Sr to J Byrd Properties 1919 LLC Marion County: Johnson Dillon to Crj Central Florida Investments LLC Marion County: Jane H Craig Declaration Of Trust to Chaffin Ethen I Marion County: Fiduciary Trust Services LLC to Bellows Chase Marion County: Latham Jesse F to Kohlhapp Jeffrey Marion County: Bonitto Maryalexa to Yorgo Development LLC Marion County: Keck James to Comegys Jake Peterson Marion County: Allard Steven Michael to Hill Jeffrey E Tr Marion County: Edwards Barbara Jean to Sacco John Anthony Marion County: Forest Properties South LLC to Celcer Gary Marion County: Drew Kenneth P to Dweck Joseph V Marion County: Cvigne Farms Limited to Vigne Family LLC Marion County: Stenson Michael B to Anderson Robert W Marion County: Maharaj Chandra to Eaton Robert Marion County: Hannon Investments LLC to Spark Assets LLC Marion County: Heine Shelly to Bellamy Theresa Marion County: Bontrager Chad Eric to Phillips Justin Marion County: Jennings Joshua C to Jennings Jereme C Marion County: Southstate Bank Na to Sbkocfl003 LLC Marion County: Southstate Bank N A to Sbkocfl002 LLC Marion County: Spires 27 LLC to Semoj 20 LLC Marion County: Siemer Michael A C to Marr Scott A Tr Marion Landing: Boehm Mike Steven to Brecht Brian P Marion Landing: Markowski Gloria C to Caminiti Ronald Marion Landing: Carso Robert G to Pittsinger Dean Marion Oaks: Abk Properties Investment LLC to A & Y Construction & Remodeling LLC Marion Oaks: Carrion Rafael Jr to DR Horton Inc Marion Oaks: Kubrusly & Basso Development LLC to Jzj Consulting LLC Marion Oaks: Kubrusly & Basso Development LLC to Abpar Orlando LLC Marion Oaks: Kubrusly & Basso Development LLC to Solida I Real Estate Lp Marion Oaks: Eskridge Mary to Perez Kristopher Marion Oaks: Florida Land LLC to Carballea Karly Marion Oaks: Teamwork Construction LLC to Siracuza Pedro Jr Marion Oaks: Berroa Cesar B to Cruz Jorge Luis Garcia Marion Oaks: Ingram Michael Phillip to Coffey Cherry Marion Oaks: Greenwood Paul to Rosales Edy Marion Oaks: Florida Land LLC to Wallace Tyler Marion Oaks: B2G Vesta Partners LLC to Eskridge Mary Marie Marion Oaks: B2G Leo Partners LLC to Desormes Leonel Marion Oaks: Sfr Owner Ml Borrower LLC to Perez Frank Alberto Montenegro Marion Oaks: DR Horton Inc to Perez Angelo Marion Oaks: Garp 001 LLC to Ramsamooj Sherry Marion Oaks: Homeland Everest Investments LLC to Alemany Wanda I Marion Oaks: K Hovnanian Aspire At Marion Oaks LLC to Dahl Christina Marie Lenyk Marion Oaks: Wmg Construction & Incorporation LLC to Davydov Ilia Marion Oaks: Rm828 LLC to Palma Aaron De La Cruz Marion Oaks: Esperanza Real Estate LLC to Rivero Carlos Marion Oaks: Gois America LLC to Vega Lisa Marion Oaks: DR Horton Inc to Amaya Wilfredo Palucho Marion Oaks: K Hovnanian Aspire At Marion Oaks LLC to Perez Jose Miguel Marion Oaks: Tomorrowland Homes LLC to Lee Flavia Marion Oaks: Tomorrowland Development LLC to Leyva Angel Marion Oaks: Estela Specs 7 LLC to Douglas Josaida Marion Oaks: Adams Homes Of Northwest Florida Inc to Padilla Elvin Antonio Marion Ranch: Lennar Homes LLC to Garcia Garcia Martha Lucia Marion Ranch: Lennar Homes LLC to Arroyo Marie Theresa Marion Ranch: Lennar Homes LLC to Petenbrink Mason Jon Marion Ranch: Freedom Commons Development LLC to Lennar Homes LLC Millwood Estates: Lennar Homes LLC to Briceno Carlos Eduardo Jauregui Millwood Estates: Lennar Homes LLC to Hernandez Javier Bomnin Millwood Estates: Lennar Homes LLC to Raju Vaishnavi Malaiyapaati Ragunatha Millwood Estates: Lennar Homes LLC to Runyon Hope Ann Millwood Estates: Lennar Homes LLC to Enacarscillo Christopher Oak Hammock Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Thomas Jeanille Patrice Oak Hammock Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Heimbach Sarah Danielle Oak Hammock Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Amani Shaima Oak Run: Bancroft Carrie Lynn to Bancroft Carrie Lynn Oak Run: Bancroft Mark Hillard to Bancroft Mark Hillard Oak Run: Keigwin Margaret A to Kleberg Eric R Oak Run: Brennan Kathleen A to Weber Victor Lynn Oak Run: Kushner Charlotte R Est to Yanders Mark Allen Oak Run: Hecht Betty Kay to Maurette Louis Oak Run Neighborhood: Lovasz Karoly to Goodrow Victor James Oak Run Neighborhood: Battaglio John L to Casler Sean T Ocala Crossings South: DR Horton Inc to Rivera Harold Rivera Ocala Park Estates: Fleming Barbara Est to Rattley Demetra Ocala Park Estates: Jacobs Brian R to Thompson Michael A Ocala Park Estates: Worldwide Alliance LLC to Watters Nathaniel Ocala Park Estates,4755 LLC to Vicens Jan Michael Ocala Preserve: DR Horton Inc to Bradham Jarhett Lee Ocala Preserve: Batista Susan Denise to Equestrian Retreat LLC Ocala Preserve: Sh Aa Development LLC to Hrubesch Robert Stephen Ocala Preserve: Forestar Usa Real Estate Group Inc to Sh Aa Development LLC Ocala Thoroughbred Acres: Carmona Peter Gerena to Leyva Eduardo Barroso Ocala Waterway Estates: Rodmar Investments LLC to Questad Mark Ocala Waterway Estates: Estela Specs 7 LLC to Sanchez Carlos On Top of the World: Hsu Henry to Livingston Don On Top of the World: Maugherman Lynn Frederick to Schiller Janice Lynn On Top of the World Ctrl Replat: Schnappauf Scott Francis to Magurk Mona Orange Blossom Hills: Velazquez Crystal Duran to Investway Group Of Florida Corp Orange Blossom Hills: Rule Patricia L to Garritan Gary Orange Blossom Hills: Ender19 LLC to Stennett Michael T Orange Lake: Mcfarland Geraldine to Harnishfeger Ralph Donald Jr Palm Cay: Figueroa Jose to Brenna Joseph A Pinehurst: Stutz Steven Dwain to Miller Jeremy Pine Oak Estates: Ocala R E Ventures LLC to Beaver Bruce Ronald Pine Run Estates: Maldonado Efrain S Jr to Salyers Sandra Pine Run Estates: Krutsinger Richard Dean to Johnson Terri A Pioneer Ranch: Lennar Homes LLC to Lorenzo Nicholas Lawrence Pioneer Ranch: Lennar Homes LLC to Cardona Ivan Andres Hernandez Pioneer Ranch: Pulte Home Company LLC to Manzano Quincy Pioneer Ranch: Lennar Homes LLC to Gp Ocala Vi LLC Pioneer Ranch: Lennar Homes LLC to Mccoy Jenny Rebecca Quail Meadow: Berendsohn Guiomar to Molter Wayne Karl Rainbow Acres: Jw Properties & Investments Fl LLC to Iacono Susan Rainbow Lakes Estates: Apex Housing Investment Solutions LLC to Lapole Troy Rainbow Lakes Estates: Drc24 LLC to Mccurdy Otis Rainbow Lakes Estates: Bellot Frank M to Crane Steven R Rainbow Lakes Estates: Bwc Constructing & Contracting Inc to Farrell Kenneth G Rainbow Lakes Estates: Mathis Properties LLC to Schuman Edmund Rainbow Lakes Estates: New Quality Enterprise LLC to Jane Desforges Trust Rainbow Lakes Estates: Caudill Jack to Gama David Rainbow Park: Lower Right Construction LLC to Scaglione Ariel Maria Rainbow Park: H Stuart Investments LLC to Melendez Nilsa Diaz Rainbow Park: Vonner Brittany T to Garcia Jeyson Elicier Rainbow Springs Ctry Club Ests: Rossi Michael to Elder Planning Income Concepts LLC Rainbow Springs Ctry Club Ests: Robertson Daniel to Chirichiello Mark Rainbow Springs Ctry Club Ests: Ramos Petrona to Hemingway Melanie Kathryn Rolling Hills: Your Home Source LLC to Saunders Noel D Rolling Hills: Newmark Old Mills Venture LLC to Espino Margarita Rolling Hills: Dream Living Homes LLC to Sampedro Kevin Rolling Hills: Mortgage Solutions & Investment Properties LLC to Altomare Brian Thomas Rolling Hills: Anchorapple LLC to Mcdonough Edith Rolling Hills: Labianca Gail to Carreau Evelyne Tr Rolling Ranch Estates: Marine Connection LLC to Calzadilla Odalmis Cardenas Rolling Ranch Estates: Crouch Homes LLC to Bartlett Maria Fernanda Clair Marlene Tr to Elder Planning Income Concepts LLC Saddle Hill: Elder Planning Income Concepts LLC to Warren Doris Dean Sheri Oaks: Christine Ploettner to Philip Salari Silver Meadows: Ramm Carl J to Johnson Grace Silver Run Forest: Sumner Land Holdings LLC to Vardis Miriam V Silver Springs: Kennel Jamie to Clark Carilla Silver Springs: Hedick Holdings LLC to Kennel Kevin Silver Springs: Zaragoza Jessica to Wilhite Jamie Lee Silver Springs: Percival Denise Renee to Gravatt Megan Silver Springs: Toro Luis Alfredo to Hbs Construction Inc Silver Springs: Mccracken Janet to Porter Jason Silver Springs: First Realty Solutions Inc to Vazquez Carlos Silver Springs Shores: Bucia Brandon to William Perrywinkle Property Holdings LLC Silver Springs Shores: Kitrosser Edward W to Elder Planning Income Concepts LLC Silver Springs Shores: Volpe Adam C to Investments Legacy Group LLC Silver Springs Shores: Florida 635 LLC to Focus Homes LLC Of Florida Silver Springs Shores: Investments Legacy Group LLC to Lamar Flipping LLC Silver Springs Shores: Hayes Michael H to Stamper Tara Lee Silver Springs Shores: Betancourt Kasandra to Teamwork Construction LLC Silver Springs Shores: Mohammed Sharon to Casa Craft By Libranv LLC Silver Springs Shores: Rapalo Levi to Huntsberry Leila Silver Springs Shores: Mehta Falguni to Chandler Marcus Ii Ii Silver Springs Shores: Elder Planning Income Concepts LLC to Edwards Ruth S Silver Springs Shores: Evaristo Flores LLC to Timeright Developement LLC Silver Springs Shores: Costa Arsenio Jr to Cuevas Adniel Soler Silver Springs Shores: Oliva Melvin to Muniz Melissa Catherine Silver Springs Shores: Richardson Jackie Linn to Borgese Lisa Marie Silver Springs Shores: Armstrong Family Investments LLC to Ellison Cleveland E Jr Silver Springs Shores: Harrington Alyse to Pangborn Jonathan Silver Springs Shores: Aldana Contracting LLC to Groom Lainey N Silver Springs Shores: Amm Properties Of Ocala LLC to Pasternak Jerry Silver Springs Shores: Southern Impression Homes LLC to East Ltr LLC Silver Springs Shores: Star 1017 LLC to Jaynes Richard Jr Silver Springs Shores: Amm Properties Of Ocala LLC to Semans Auriana Silver Springs Shores: Aitana Property LLC to Zamora Vanessa Veronica Silver Springs Shores: Jen Homes LLC to Trail Harvey Kenesha Silver Springs Shores: Whitlow Daniel to Kuettel Trent W Silver Springs Shores: Focus Homes LLC Of Florida to Rodriguez Angel Luis Silver Springs Shores: Adams Homes Of Northwest Florida Inc to Delfosse Aaron Matthew Silver Springs Shores: Adams Homes Of Northwest Florida Inc to Matos Cynthia Silver Springs Shores: Clayton Properties Group Inc to Dominguez Delio Silver Springs Shores: Tps Buisness Services LLC to Brownings Aluminum & Screen Repair LLC Spruce Creek Country Club: Dorsey Terrence W to Hatfield Lorrie Spruce Creek Country Club: Brown Robert L to Bryant Gary H Tr Spruce Creek Golf & Country Club: Nichols Claire Elizabeth to Nichols Franca Spruce Creek Golf & Country Club: Austin Robert F to Galle Lucy S Spruce Creek South: Swigert Brett L to Gessel Thomas Scott Spruce Creek South: Keating Mary R to Waldrop Harold C Spruce Creek South: Schuff Robert C to Krull Glenn Spruce Creek South: Whitehill Vicky Lynn to Andrews Patricia Spruce Creek South: Rainey Robert W to Simonton Timothy D Stone Creek by Del Webb: Pulte Home Company LLC to Collett Cynthia Anne Stone Creek by Del Webb: Pulte Home Company LLC to Heiland Gilbert Emil Stone Creek by Del Webb: Gurbisz Diane to Houpt Frank Stone Creek by Del Webb: Pulte Home Company LLC to Jones Keith L Stonecrest: Reed Dolores to Marst Properties LLC Stonecrest: Lefkowitz Bonnie E to Miller Anje Anjanette Stonecrest: Wagner Roderick to Spires John Stonecrest: Wedemeyer Donna M to Martin Constance Comery Tr Stonecrest: Forrest Lewis E to 12006 Summerfield LLC Stonecrest: Higgins Thomas E to Harriman Aaron R Summercrest: Pagaya Smartresi F1 Fund Property Owner Iv LLC to Grant Regina Summercrest: Opendoor Property Trust I to Cook Chase C Summercrest: Clayton Properties Group Inc to Juan Carlos Puentes Revocable Trust Summerglen/Summer Glen: Masse Michael G to Van Gorp Paul D Sunset Hills: DR Horton Inc to Nguyen Anh Thy Quoc Sunset Hills: DR Horton Inc to Fernandez Talavera Luis Manuel Tropicana Village: Benedetto Lois to Kramer William E Jr Villages of Marion: Yaeger Scott J to Yaeger Julia Tr Villages of Marion: Duncan Mark R to Brower Carla Elizabeth Villages of Marion: 7770 Glen Leven LLC to Herron Robb W Villages of Marion: Hansen Renee to Lintvedt Carol Marie Villages of Marion: Sheets Larry A to Albright Jonathon Frank West End Ocala: D&S Development LLC to Strossner Catherine West Oak: Wjhfl LLC to Liranzo Jennifer Sharlene Bernal Weybourne Landing: Trexler Martin C to Bernard Randall R Weybourne Landing: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Rubin Robert Weybourne Landing: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Frassetti Edward A Woodfields: Stine James W to Mpr Properties 3 LLC Woods & Lakes: Lapcinski Joseph P to Drawver Lorraine C Woods & Meadows: Us Bank Trust Na Tr to Ingraham Casandra L Wynchase Townhomes: Combs Matthew to Mdc Rental Properties LLC Wynchase Townhomes: Lam Homes LLC to Ajax Real State Euskadi LLC There is a lot of buzz in the building surrounding the group of players with a handful of potential Day 1 starters One player who is not expected to immediately start for the Cowboys is seventh-round pick Phil Mafah there are some high hopes for what he can bring to the backfield MORE: Cowboys rookie jersey numbers revealed on first day of minicamp David Moore of the Dallas Morning News was discussing Mafah on the latest episode of his podcast when he gave the former Clemson star an NFL comparison to former Cowboys fan-favorite Marion Barber Dallas Cowboys running back Marion Barber runs the ball against the New Orleans Saints / Brett Davis-Imagn ImagesIf Mafah can bring the same fire and energy to the Cowboys running game that Barber was known for he will instantly develop a cult following from Cowboys Nation MORE: Dallas Cowboys' Day 3 draft pick named one of top 'impact rookies' Mafah rushed for 1,115 yards and eight touchdowns Throughout his four-year career with the Tigers the bruising running back recorded 2,887 yards Clemson Tigers running back Phil Mafah runs 41 yards for a touchdown against Notre Dame / Ken Ruinard-Imagn ImagesMafah is the perfect style of running back to complement Cowboys fourth-round pick Jaydon Blue a versatile speedster from the Texas Longhorns Dallas will get a first look at its new running backs during rookie minicamp at The Star in Frisco and will run through Sunday — Enjoy free coverage of the Cowboys from Dallas Cowboys on SI — Dallas Cowboys go for offensive star in way-too-early 2026 NFL mock draft Cowboys rookie minicamp dates 2025: Full offseason workout details Cowboys crack top 10 in surprising NFL post-draft power rankings Cowboys named possible trade partner for AFC West team with promising young WR Meet Kelcey Wetterberg: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only Betting and gambling content is intended for individuals 21+ and is based on individual commentators' opinions and not that of Sports Illustrated or its affiliates All picks and predictions are suggestions only and not a guarantee of success or profit If you or someone you know has a gambling problem crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER products and programs in the greater Marion community visit us at marionmade.org or on social media What started as a childhood dream of digging through ancient ruins has turned into a blooming small business for Waldo resident Elizabeth Lee Once a professional archaeologist with degrees in archaeology and early American history chemical-free flowers at Frontier Farm Flowers a flourishing micro-farm nestled in Marion County Lee’s path to flower farming was anything but typical After earning master’s degree in archaeology and working on Etruscan digs in Italy she was preparing to earn her doctorate when a family trip to Michigan changed everything He invited her to help with the harvest and deliveries “After the kitchen staff gushed over these beautiful vegetables my grandmother took us all to have dinner at the restaurant that evening,” Lee said “I remember watching diners enjoy vegetables I had helped pick just hours earlier Something about that moment sparked a passion I couldn’t ignore.” bought 10 acres in Waldo and moved in with their young daughter Bryan grew up in LaRue and they wanted to be closer to his family in early American history at West Virginia University at the time her academic research followed historical farming families westward in search of new land − mirroring her own journey to Marion County “I quickly felt like I would rather be a farmer than write about historic farmers The idea of naming our farm Frontier Farm came from that Our land is on what I thought of as the Ohio frontier Starting our farm was also a new frontier for us since neither of us had a lot of experience with growing for market,” Lee said producing vegetables and eggs for the family the Lees joined the Main Street Delaware Farmers Market The early offerings were mostly produce with a few flower bunches for color That all changed in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted restaurant sales I decided to grow more flowers simply to lift my spirits,” Lee said It became clear there was a real market for locally-grown flowers.” Frontier Farm Flowers focuses primarily on seasonal pesticide-free blooms sold at farmers markets through local retailers such as Props & Pots and Spruce & Sparrow in Marion Lee also started a bouquet subscription program Modeled after Community Supported Agriculture the subscription provides early-season income for the farm and fresh weekly bouquets for customers including the Alluvial Private Wealth Forge business classes for helping her formalize her vision and gain access to resources the local economy felt like it was in decline,” she said “But now there’s so much momentum around small businesses It’s a great time to be growing something new.” Frontier Farm still produces vegetables and raises free-range turkeys for Thanksgiving but flowers have become the heart of the farm local option to residents who value freshness “I’m not a florist − I’m a grower,” she said “My customers want less formal flower bouquets and place value on the fact that my flowers are seasonal My customers love that these flowers come straight from our field Lee and other entrepreneurs depend on the support of local customers “If the people of Marion didn’t continue to enthusiastically support small local businesses that revitalization won't continue,” Lee said (WPDE) — One person has been shot on Saturday morning near the H20 Club at 4524 Highway 76 according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office to a call regarding "shots fired with multiple victims." Officials said one victim had "non-life threatening injuries." READ NEXT: Murder suspect arrested in connection with Loris High School student's death Those with information are asked to call the sheriff's office non-emergency number at 843-423-8399 Van Creasap is giving back to the community he loves “who was fortunate enough to have both sets of grandparents (Dr Owen ‘Bud’ and Angie Creasap) who lived and worked in the Marion community I was able to watch them give back to this community in many ways and I always thought someday I’d be able to do the same I never dreamed that would include working at Marion Public Health.” Creasap is the director of environmental health at Marion Public Health where he helps direct and manage programs such as food safety permits and enforcement actions comply with all applicable codes," he said "The team takes great pride in educating not only our licensees but the public to help promote environmental safety and to help reduce risks and increase prevention.” He also works with community partners to build strategies and initiatives to help ensure MPH’s services and priorities align with public health laws local needs and Foundational Public Health Services graduated from Marion Harding High School in 2000 then The Ohio State University in 2004 with a degree in business administration “By the time I graduated from OSU in 2004,” he said “I was helping run and operate my grandparents’ Shamrock Vineyard “With the polar vortexes we saw 10 years ago,” he said “the vines were struggling so I started looking for a part-time job My interest and knowledge of public health was limited when I applied and started working at Marion Public Health 8 years ago collecting mosquitoes as part of a grant that monitored mosquito populations and the diseases they may be carrying in Marion County.” Started off as sanitarian in training so he could do more than collect mosquitoesWhile doing that part-time he said he listened and watched his teammates and realized how "amazing and fun their jobs were I knew I wanted to get more involved in environmental health in our community." He became a licensed sanitarian in training "so I could do things other than collecting mosquitoes." He said that was when "the world of EH open up to me and I was able to get even more behind the scenes to see this was becoming a passion of mine." He said the job is not just about oversight and enforcement but also giving back to the community that "raised you and shaped you It’s about building positive relationships with operators We are our strongest and healthiest when we are working together.” Traci Kinsler is the health commissioner at Marion Public Health “Van is an asset to Marion Public Health,” Kinsler said innovative and a true leader to our staff and the community He’s passionate about improving the health of Marion County residents He takes his role as environmental health director very seriously and is invested in ensuring that our community is safe from communicable diseases caused by unsafe food “We show up every day to ensure families have clean water In environmental health we stand quietly between the community and the invisible risks that could change lives and families forever This type of commitment doesn’t come from a job description but we do it because we know that preventing illness affords our community members a healthy place to live For more information about Marion Public Health visit marionpublichealth.org Aces of Trades is a weekly series focusing on people and their jobs – whether they’re unusual jobs fun jobs or people who take ordinary jobs and make them extraordinary If you have a suggestion for a future profile Native to Asia, the spotted lanternfly was first found in Pennsylvania in 2014 and identified in Ohio in 2020 lanternfly larvae will emerge from their eggs and wreak havoc on your garden and Ohio's environment The red hindwings are mostly hidden unless the wings are spread Their eggs hatch in the spring and early summer starting as early as April Early nymphs are black with white spots; older nymphs are red with black and white spots The invasive species also produces a sticky sugary substance known as "honeydew" that attracts ants The honeydew is also colonized by a fungus called sooty mold Spotted lanternflies were discovered in 2014 in Pennsylvania. When they were first identified in Ohio, over a dozen counties entered quarantine in an effort to increase inspections and restrict the movement of this invasive species Several counties in northern and eastern Ohio quarantined in 2024 after spotted lanternflies were spotted The insects are native to southern China, Vietnam, and Taiwan. These stowaways made it across the US by hitching a ride along with imported goods, per USA Today Lanternflies have been spotted in 17 states so far If you see spotted lanternflies or their eggs and egg masses, the Ohio Department of Agriculture has several recommendations on how to kill them: Nymphs and adults: If there are only a few If the infestation calls for an insecticide lower toxicity ones such as horticultural oils and insecticidal soaps can provide control with little residual effects carbaryl and malathion may be used as spot treatments systemic insecticide treatments with dinotefuran or imidacloprid can be used as trunk sprays trunk injections or soil drenches depending on the label removing spotted lanternfly host plants — some of which are invasive themselves like the tree of heaven — can help reduce populations Egg masses: These can be destroyed before they hatch by scraping them with a knife into soapy water or rubbing alcohol to kill the eggs The masses can also be treated with horticultural oils during the winter or before plants start sprouting in spring Some insecticides may need to be applied by certified personnel Do not apply when trees or shrubs are in bloom or if nearby flowering plants may absorb the insecticide If you suspect a spotted lanternfly outside a quarantined county, take a photograph and report the finding to the ODA Plant Pest Control using the Ohio Plant Pest Reporter Lanternflies found in or around known infestations do not need to be reported Chad Murphy and Julia Gomez contributed to reporting These homes borrow from Tudor Revival and English Cottage styles for their fairytale appearances These five properties for sale all radiate whimsical charm and character, like something out of a fairytale. Storybook architecture was meant to evoke nostalgia and distinguish itself from the more conventional houses in their vicinity such as our first listing on Chicago’s South Side These asymmetrical designs borrowed elements from Tudor Revival and English Cottage Styles they are also known for playful architectural details that reflect exceptional craftsmanship It is said that these residential designs were mainly inspired by medieval European villages But we must remember the word “inspire” as they are not entirely historically accurate You can find numerous examples in Chicago neighborhoods such as Beverly and Sauganash as well as in historic commuter suburbs in the surrounding area On the edge of Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood stands a charming three-bedroom residence with beautiful landscaping designed by local architect Charles Archer in 1928 The brick driveway complements the brick and stone exterior of the home including colorful ceramic tiles in the foyer a gracefully curved staircase with an iron railing and a stone fireplace in the sunken living room might not fit today’s trends but it is workable while the large unfinished basement also has potential I really like the casement windows in the upstairs bedrooms six-bedroom home on a corner lot that stands out for its distinctive architecture from the turreted entrance to an interior filled with millwork Since the property last sold over four years ago and a new primary bedroom suite with a see-through fireplace The user-friendly kitchen is perfectly sized i and I absolutely adore the charming butler’s pantry I also have to highlight other great details the finished basement with a wet bar and a dog mural and the conservatory that is attached to the two-car garage This next property is more of a blend of Tudor Revival and Arts & Crafts but the historic elements of its interior definitely give off Storybook vibes and a balcony that overlooks the living room the current owners built an addition that features a family room with a fireplace and built-in seating which is adjacent to the all-white kitchen four-bedroom home in northwestern Evanston is within walking distance of Perkins Woods and all the shops and eateries along Central Street This impressive and pricey home, spanning nearly 4,000 square feet and located on a corner lot in Chicago’s Sauganash features five bedrooms and three full bathrooms. It is on the market for the first time in almost 30 years, based on its sales history. According to the Chicago Historic Resources Survey, the residence was designed in 1938 by architect John G. Steinbach who is best known for his elaborate churches The interior appears to be bright and airy but also looks like it requires some updating I really like the sunroom and the galley kitchen with its rounded breakfast nook at the end There is a finished basement complete with a family room What truly sells this property — a rarity in the city — is the professionally landscaped backyard with a patio and mature trees four-bathroom home in Chicago’s Galewood that is currently contingent as of this writing The interior is somewhat outdated (although I really like the French doors and sun porch) which is not surprising given that the property last sold in 1998 Today’s asking price reflects a 250% increase from its previous sale at $211,000 the property may have found a buyer within a week of hitting the market I can understand why: It appears to have good bones Sign up for our Home & Real Estate newsletter We hope you enjoy our newsletters.To subscribe to the print edition of Chicago magazine, go to chicagomag.com/subscribe Chicago magazine newsletters have you covered Marion County Public Health will hold their monthly providers meeting today The meeting is held the first Monday of every month and gives different community health organizations the opportunity to share updates and provide information There is also a presentation given at each provider’s meeting and today the presenter will be Mildred Chihak with HIRTA Helps Any provider or health organization in Marion County is welcome to attend this meeting to provide updates Del Bennett with Marion County Public Health encourages organizations to attend the monthly meetings “If there is an organization that would like to come to the providers meeting they can either call out here to public health and ask to speak to me and I can get them on the list or they can just come out the first Monday of the month at 9:30 and is held at Marion County Public Health (KBSI) — Authorities are searching for a 27-year-old Marion man who went missing Saturday Hunter was last seen leaving his home on foot around 3 p.m. Hunter is described as 5 feet 6 inches tall He was wearing dark clothing and carrying several bags Anyone with information on Hunter’s whereabouts is asked to contact Kentucky State Police Post 2 at 270-676-3313 © 2025 KBSI FOX23 News Cape Girardeau News | Paducah News Email Newsletters RSS Feeds Contests and Rules Contact Us / Follow on Social Media Careers at WKMG Closed Captioning / Audio Description Public File Current EEO Report Terms of Use Privacy Policy Do Not Sell My Info FCC Applications EEO Report Disability Assistance Copyright © 2025 ClickOrlando.com is managed by Graham Digital and published by Graham Media Group This is a big week for Marion-area spring sports teams and athletes The Northwest Central Conference softball race could be decided Friday night when Ridgedale goes to Elgin for a twice-canceled makeup game Elgin's baseball team remains in the hunt for the NWCC title River Valley softball is hanging around in the standings with Shelby while Highland is poised to add to its league championship streak in baseball Cardington is tied with Centerburg for first place in the Knox Morrow Athletic Conference baseball standings Marion Night Invitational: Leah Price, Ben Isler raise the bar during the 75th Marion Night Invitational OHSAA football playoffs: OHSAA studying football playoff formats, plus Marion-area divisions and regions announced The Marion County Track Meet is Wednesday evening at Elgin as athletes tune up for next week's league meets Marion Harding remains atop the boys tennis standings in the MOAC with the league tournament looming Thursday and Saturday at Lakewood Racquet Club in Lexington While rain washed out all of Saturday's action there were still plenty of worthy performances across the Marion area last week in boys and girls spring sports Fans can vote for their favorite performers in the latest athlete of the week polls offered at MarionStar.com and its app The polls run through early Sunday morning Marion Star Boys Best of the Week Performer PollRiver Valley track's Ben Isler won the 75th Marion Night Invitational in the pole vault at 13 feet 4 inches.Northmor track's Cowin Becker won the 62nd Elgin Relays in the long jump at 22 feet the 1600 in 5:23.6 and was fifth in the high jump at 5 feet at the 75th Marion Night Invitational.North Union's Gabby Lindsey won the long jump at the 62nd Elgin Relays in 17 feet.Northmor softball's Lexi See hit a home run and double in a win over Loudonville.Cardington softball's Myleigh Bishop hit a home run and two doubles to end with three runs and six RBIs in a win over Mount Gilead.River Valley softball's Samantha Woods hit a double plus a 3-run home run in the seventh inning to beat Highland.Elgin softball's Kendall Allen pitched a five-inning no-hitter with three walks and seven strikeouts in a win over Perry.Last week's winnersIn last week's girls poll North Union softball's Kennedy Harrah hit a triple double and single for four RBIs in a win over Dublin Jerome She earned 420 of 939 votes (45 percent) to win the poll Other nominees were Highland softball's Lydia Shaffer Elgin softball's Madison Hill and Marion Harding softball's Raina Smith Highland baseball's Jayden Collins set the single-season saves record at the school with his fourth plus he hit two singles in a win over Galion He earned 278 of 710 votes (39 percent) to win the poll Other nominees were Marion Harding baseball's Tyson Lind Elgin baseball's Mitchell Askew and North Union track's Ben Bonnell Correction: The bank robber wore a medical face mask during the robbery A Jack Skellington face was on the front of the robber's hoodie sweatshirt An earlier version of this story and its headlines incorrectly described what the robber wore At times breathing heavily, crying, and clasping her hands together, Christina Gates Thagard was told more than once by Circuit Judge Ann Melinda Craggs not to talk about her case Several times during Thagard's court appearance on May 4 she could be heard saying she's sorry On suicide watch and charged with robbery with a firearm, Thagard was at the Marion County Jail on May 4 for her first appearance hearing (First appearance hearings on the weekends typically are held inside a small courtroom at the jail judges typically are at the courthouse and use Zoom to communicate with the inmates a former Marion County Sheriff's Office deputy was arrested by Ocala Police Department officers on May 3 accused of robbing the TD Bank branch at 2437 SE 17th St told the court she doesn't have any valuables The judge appointed the Public Defender's Office to represent her Assistant State Attorney Kyle Lambert asked the judge to keep Thagard on a no-bail status because the crime she's accused of is punishable by life in prison and she has a pending battery case Court records show Thagard was arrested March 24 by a Marion County Sheriff's deputy accused of domestic battery against her adult child Assistant Public Defender Sarah Gazulli asked the judge to set a reasonable bail The judge agreed with the prosecutor and declined to set bail citing the severity of the robbery charge and the prior arrest for domestic battery Thagard's next court hearing was set for June In the arrest affidavit, Ocala Police Detective Mark Pfeifer provided additional details about the case that were not immediately available on May 3 For example, he wrote that surveillance video from the bank shows the bank robber wore a glove on the left hand, a black hoodie with a Jack Skellington face on the front, an orange medical face mask, black sunglasses, black leggings and a large purse. (Jack Skellington is a skeleton character in the 1993 movie "The Nightmare Before Christmas.") The note read: "This is a robbery I have a gun and will shoot if any alarms or dye packs are enclosed Police had a description of the car the robber was driving and stopped it on State Road 200 near the Paddock Mall including an orange medical mask and a hoodie with the Jack Skellington face They also found a little more than $5,000 in cash in a purse The report doesn't mention discovering a gun Thagard's interviewThagard was taken to OPD and questioned by Pfeifer she told the detective she was in Ocala that morning to purchase clothes for a funeral She said she went to visit a male friend whose home is not far from the bank Thagard said when she went to the friend's residence there was a woman wearing the hoodie that officers later found in her vehicle She said her friend asked her to go with him somewhere She said she allowed the friend and the woman to use her vehicle Thagard said she remained at the friend's home Though there was clothing and other items inside her vehicle she noticed police cars were following her and did not know why Robber sentenced: Woman charged with robbing Marion County discount store sentenced to 10-year prison term Thagard continued to deny robbing the bank Thagard arrested her and she was transported to the county jail for booking Nine middle school students earned thousands of dollars in scholarships at the annual OSU MTC Marion Math Challenge 172 students from seven middle schools competed April 25 at the at the Marion campus The top nine students received a total of $13,500 in scholarships from Marion Technical College and The Ohio State University at Marion “We’re incredibly proud of these young students for their achievements in mathematics,” said Dr “Their hard work and talent at such an early age show great promise Math opens doors to countless opportunities and we’re excited to see where their skills will take them.” dean and director of The Ohio State University at Marion “Having so many young math enthusiasts on campus and inspiring students to pursue math-based education is paramount to the future of medical and industry job growth here in central Ohio," she said "Math is the cornerstone to a multitude of STEM careers and we are so pleased to reward these bright young minds with scholarships to our campus where we have world-class faculty ready to teach them in programs like our bachelor’s degrees in biology and psychology and bring them in to high-powered internships and research projects in the process.” The first-place winners in each grade earned a $1,000 scholarship to both colleges Second-place winners received $750 scholarships from each college and third-place winners were awarded $500 scholarships from both Ohio State Marion and Marion Tech Top-performing schools were also recognized based on the combined scores of their highest-ranking students Each team’s members received medals and their schools were awarded trophies Here are the winning teamsFirst Place - Highland Middle School; Team members were Liam Cahall Second Place – Pleasant Middle School; Team Members were Oliver Schmelzer Third Place – North Union Middle School; Team Members were Owen Wilcox The event was organized by a team of educators from both colleges UPDATE: Evacuation order lifted | Crews battle fire in Ocala National ForestOcala Star-Banner(This story was updated to accurately reflect the most current information.) May 2 the evacuation order was lifted and all roads are open according to the Marion County Sheriff's Office A 150-acre fire that started the afternoon of May 2 in the Ocala National Forest has led to an evacuation order for part of northeast Marion County Road 314 between Southeast First Road and State Road 40 has been temporarily closed due to the fire according to a Facebook post from the Marion County Sheriff's Office An evacuation order was issued about 7:12 p.m., according to a Facebook post from the U.S. Forest Service. The Reverse 911/Alert Marion system was activated to notify those who need to evacuate Specific details on which areas need to evacuate were not immediately provided on social media The reunification area will be the Winn Dixie at 15912 SR 40 East in Silver Springs Fire details: Check out the Star-Banner's data center Forest Service are battling the blaze with engines that agency brought two tankers from Lake City; by 9 p.m the Florida Department of Transportation and the Marion County Sheriff's Office were cautioning drivers in the Ocala National Forest to be aware of possible visibility reductions resulting from wildfires "This dangerous combination of smoke and fog (known as super fog)" may affect visibility especially during overnight and early morning hours according to a sheriff's office Facebook post According to the Star-Banner's read of official reports, there have been several wildfires burning in the forest in recent days One is a 5-acre fire in Lynne that started on April 28 this fire is off Northeast 10th Street Road north of State Road 40 and Waldena Lake "While only 5 acres, the Lynn Fire continues to persist," the forest service reported in a May 1 Facebook post. "Deep layers of duff buildup This has produced a fog/ smoke mixture in the mornings that is impacting SR 40 "Crews continue to address these lingering areas with aviation and hand work (digging,)" the post continues further noting that on April 30 a helicopter "dropped several thousand gallons of water in support of ground crews." Related coverage: 82% of Florida experiencing drought conditions. See worst areas and whether rain expected soon A second fire was a 19-acre blaze in the Lake Charles area that also started on April 28 A 35-acre fire started April 23 in part of the bombing range in the forest "There are currently three fires in the area of the Ocala National Forest," the Florida Highway Patrol reported at 8:30 p.m "Motorists are advised to use extreme caution if traveling on State Road 40 and County Road 314 State Road 40 and NE 131st Avenue and State Road 40 and SE 170th Avenue." the FHP issued another advisory for a different part of Marion: "Motorists are urged to use caution driving in the area of U.S 301 and (Southeast) 135th Street due to a 14-acre fire," that advisory reads "There may be times of limited visibility due to smoke Motorist are reminded to use low beams when traveling through areas of smoke and fog and to reduce speed." A statewide issue"More than 82% of Florida is suffering from drought conditions ranging from moderate to extreme, according to NOAA's National Integrated Drought Information System," the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida reported the morning of May 2 East Marion County is in the "extreme drought" category According to the news network, 102 wildfires were burning statewide as of May 2. Twenty-three counties have some form of burn ban in place; that does not include Marion, which enacted a voluntary ban on April 17. Cheryl McCloud of USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida contributed What: Spend the night out on the town with this Mother's Day event snacks and drinks all while supporting local Where: Ohio State University at Marion Morrill Hall Auditorium What: Calling all Beatles fans! Sing-along to an acoustic night of Beatles throwbacks featuring William Florian Florian is sure to play fan-favorites like "I Saw Her Standing There," "Yesterday," "Imagine" and more What: Kids under 18 years old can join Marion Police Department and Marion County Sheriff's Office for a day by the water The Ohio Department of Natural Resources will provide polls to kids who don't have them Cost: Free (bring your own pole and tackle) What: Analog Youth will perform at OK Café The performance will take you back in time with songs spanning multiple decades What: Silo Mayne, a singer-songwriter born and raised in Marion County, will perform. Mayne's music is influence by classic country and rock. He's also the lead vocalist for a Central Ohio rock band, Crow the Saint MARION COUNTY – Residents in Marion County were ordered to evacuate on Friday after a 150-acre wildfire broke out near the Ocala National Forest In a release USFS officials said that the fire was burning near 11005 S.E An evacuation order was later issued for Highway 314 in east Marion County at 7:12 p.m As a result, the Reverse 911/Alert Marion emergency system was used to alert those who need to evacuate Shortly afterward, Marion County Fire Rescue declared that the evacuation order was lifted firefighters are expected to remain at the scene overnight to monitor the fire the USFS announced that smoke was heavy in that area thus urging drivers against using the route “Please continue to refrain from unnecessary travel on 314,” the release reads “Expect continued smoke impact along the road over the next few days and drive accordingly as smoke may mix with fog and severely impact visibility.” Data from the Florida Forest Service shows that as of 9:30 p.m Copyright 2025 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved TV Listings the draft Short Term Rental (STR) bylaw is contrary to the Marion Master Plan goals of Village Style residential areas and expansion of affordable housing for families and empty nesters It ignores the Marion Housing Production Plan goals: (1) Promote housing options for those with moderate and fixed incomes (2) produce housing options to support safe and accessible housing for all ages Zoning is the use of ordinance to partition the Town into sections reserved for different purposes (residence Residence is defined as the act of dwelling in a place for some time the place where one actually lives; as distinguished from a place of temporary sojourn (a STR) The draft STR bylaw ignores these established concepts Previously I raised important questions with respect to the STR bylaw: (1) What is the justification for proposing by-right non-residential use in all residential zones (2) what is the justification for no cap on the number of STRs in Marion and (3) what is the justification for having no limit on the number of STRs owned by a single entity the proposed bylaw will result in the disruption of family residential neighborhoods It will result in the loss of any reasonably affordable housing in Marion It is not in the best interest of Marion residents Now the Ohio High School Athletic Association will take the time to see what exactly everyone wants when it comes to football playoffs in the fall the year after all teams were invited during the 2020 COVID-19 affected season the OHSAA has invited 16 teams per region in all seven divisions to the postseason There have been concerns about non-competitive first-round games pitting No The state's football coaches association pushed for 12-team regions before the OHSAA doubled the fields for 2021 the top four seeds would get Week 11 byes into the second round According to OHSAA Director of Officiating Beau Rugg who is also the lead administrator for football the 12 versus 16 debate is the subject of that survey athletic directors and administrators from all sizes of schools and running the gamut of postseason success "What do they want and how important is it We’re going to make sure we have plenty of data and plenty of conversations before we take away opportunities from kids That’s important," Rugg said during a Thursday meeting with members of the Ohio Prep Sports Media Association when 2025 playoff divisions and regions were announced a 12-team bracket should generate more competitive opening round games as No John's was a 15 (seed) last year and won three games and lost 14-0 in the regional final and they would have had no chance," Rugg said Harding's new football coach: For Marion Harding football and new coach C.J. Westler, 'it's the right time' Fall sports tourney divisions released: OHSAA releases division assignments for 2025 fall sports. What's that mean for the area? 13 or worse that pulled off first-round upsets five of those upset victors then won regional quarterfinal games last season 13 or worse won multiple playoff games in their postseasons "You know you’re going to have some (upsets) It’s worth the excitement of the ones who come through We will have people every year that are getting better as the year goes on and maybe getting healthier as the year goes on and they’ll have a chance." Then there is the question of the bye week for the top four seeds If I’m ready to play and we don’t like to wait a week and I don’t know what to do with that week the top eight seeds are guaranteed a home playoff game in the first round that means no games in Week 11 for those top squads "Even though we take the gate (ticket receipts) they still could have made … between ($2,000) and $5,000," Rugg said of potential sales in concessions 50-50 raffles and parking which all go to the host schools state champions and runners-up play 16 games if they play a full 10-game regular season that’s less than two percent of the football teams that play 16 games a 5-seed would still have to play 16 games if they make it You’ve got some dynamics there that you have to fight through There are plenty of non-competitive games being played all season In the Division VII state championship game "Look at the top six or seven teams and look at their regular season and they’ve got non-competitive games out there It’s a non-competitive game because one team plays a hell of a lot better than the other team "That’s just something you live with from Game 1 to Game 16 I don’t see that as a big thing of gosh we shouldn’t do this because it’s not competitive We’re going to have non-competitive games if we go to 12 (teams)." And coaches even find value in those mismatches "One coach said we know we’re going to lose but we need our kids to see what it’s like and what a good team is and what you need to do to be a good team," Rugg said So the OHSAA will study the results and make a determination regional placements announcedFor the 10 Marion-area schools there is one minor change heading into the 2025 postseason Ridgedale remains in the smallest division which includes eastern and southeastern schools and into Region 26 with northwest Ohio teams Marion Harding remains in Division II and will compete in Region 7 with other central and northeast Ohio teams River Valley and Highland are Division IV with RV in Region 14 with northwest and northern Ohio squads and the Scots in Region 15 with teams from central Pleasant and North Union remain in Division V Pleasant with an enrollment of 171 boys and a competitive balance factor of 21 has an adjusted figure of 192 that is 10 away from being Division IV Mount Gilead and Northmor return to Division VI Elgin with a 134 enrollment and 20 competitive balance figure for a 154 is two away from being Division V while MG is three away from D-V with its 145 enrollment and 8 competitive balance adjustment Cardington is 12 above the Division VII cutoff the Marion City Council will hear a presentation about the historic Morehead Cemetery the council members will consider the approval of the revision to the ARPA grant project ordinance and rescheduling the public hearing for the closing of a portion of Tennessee Avenue Council then will recognize National Public Works Week and Kitty Wilson with the McDowell Partnership for Substance Awareness Inc The McDowell Chamber of Commerce will appear before the city council Council will hear a presentation about the historic Morehead Cemetery which has been a burial place for Black families for many years and is now maintained by the city The Marion City Council will also hear the report from City Manager Woody Ayers Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter Email notifications are only sent once a day “It is an honor to have been selected as Navy Clinical Optician of the Year,” Chavez said we can affirmatively say that little girls who aspire to become a city manager have a specific instance they can … "We’re thrilled with the response," said Susan Elliott chair of the McDowell County Democratic Party and one of the organizers Account processing issue - the email address may already exist Invalid password or account does not exist Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account MARION (WBSM) —- Wareham Police led an investigation that resulted in the arrest of a Marion man earlier this week for allegedly trafficking fentanyl as well as distributing other drugs along with Marion Police and Plymouth Police served three drug-related search warrants on Tuesday on Dylan McCoog the investigation – which also included members of the Plymouth Police K-9 Unit and the Plymouth County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit turned up “large quantities of suspected fentanyl McCoog was arrested and charged with trafficking fentanyl three counts of possession with intent to distribute a Class B substance (subsequent offense) possession with intent to distribute a Class A substance (subsequent offense) disorderly conduct and assault and battery on a police officer Police said McCoog was arraigned in Wareham District Court and is currently being held on $20,000 cash bail McCoog was previously arrested in October 2020 in Sandwich after a motor vehicle stop for an expired license turned up more than two pounds of marijuana and various other drugs as well as a switchblade knife Wareham Police led an investigation that resulted in the arrest of a Marion man for allegedly trafficking fentanyl as well as distributing other drugs.\nRead More MARION (WBSM) —- Wareham Police led an investigation that resulted in the arrest of a Marion man earlier this week for allegedly trafficking fentanyl as well as distributing other drugs McCoog was previously arrested in October 2020 in Sandwich after a motor vehicle stop for an expired license turned up more than two pounds of marijuana and various other drugs as well as a switchblade knife Thanks for visiting The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here (This story has been updated to accurately reflect the most current information) A woman accused of robbing an Ocala bank branch the morning of May 3 has been arrested by Ocala police The defendant has been identified as Christina Thagard She was arrested on a charge of robbery with a firearm and booked into the Marion County Jail Ocala police said they were called to the TD Bank branch at 2437 SE 17th St The report was that someone had robbed the bank Officers on scene were told that the robber entered the building and gave the teller a note indicating it was a holdup After receiving an undetermined amount of cash Police officials said the robber indicating having a firearm Authorities were given a description of the woman and a vehicle she entered The vehicle was stopped along State Road 200 by the Paddock Mall and the driver was detained and taken to the Ocala Police Department for questioning Prison: Bank robber sentenced to 20 years robbing a bank became a federal crime in 1934 the latest year for which full statistics are available the FBI reported 1,362 bank robberies nationwide 111 occurred on Saturdays and only 16 took place between the hours of 6 and 9 a.m – The Braves continue their extended road trip this weekend as they take on the Indiana State Sycamores in a three-game series The Braves (9-31) are coming off two midweek losses to the University of Illinois on Tuesday and Western Illinois on Wednesday. Cole Smith had a solid performance in both games He has reached safely in his last 10 games with five multi-hit games in that span Bobby Atkinson is the player to watch this weekend He has been phenomenal throughout the season He has been one of the hottest hitters for the Braves heading into this weekend as he has four multi-hit efforts in his last seven games On the mound, Bradley's pitching staff may be fatigued heading into this one after their two-game weekday series. Reece Clapp did not pitch for the Braves during the week and has been a solid closer for the team this season making him a key arm to watch this weekend The Sycamores (21-23) have been an up-and-down team all season Carlos Pena has been the best hitter for the Sycamores so far this season Max McEwan has been a great starter for Indiana State this season He currently leads the team with 62 strikeouts while holding hitters to just a .213 batting average against him He has not allowed a run in his last two outings while striking out 12 over 12 ⅔ innings pitched The Braves' bats will need to show up this weekend to help support the pitching staff Bradley's pitchers will most likely be working on shorter rest than they are used to so the offense will need to have a standout performance to lower the Sycamores' morale early in the series PEORIA, Ill. -- Bradley Baseball senior Timmy O'Brien has been named as a recipient of the 2025 Spring Missouri Valley Conference State Farm Good Neighbor Award as MVC Commissioner Jeff Jackson announced the 12 honorees on Tuesday.","type":null,"byline":"Allison Novak","app_exclusive":false,"sport_display":"Baseball | Curtis Granderson Field\r\nBradley Baseball took the first game in the three-game weekend series but dropped the last two to the UIC Flames Thanks for visiting MARION — Voters will determine the outcome of several proposals including the removal of the Stretch Energy Code the creation of a historic district and a management plan for roads and sidewalks at Town Meeting on Monday The potential renovation of the Marion Town House will be voted on at Town Meeting this proposal would appropriate almost $3.3 million to be used for accessibility improvements a fire suppression system and updating HVAC systems Due to rising costs of construction and current lack of building code compliance Building Commissioner Bob Grillo said these renovations should be a top priority Fire Chief Brian Jackvony said that if the town does not vote to approve these renovations he will have to submit an order of non-compliance to the state forcing the town to submit a detailed timeline of the future construction plans within 30 days The potential funding will come from $300,000 worth of free cash and almost $3 million from borrowed funds The Finance Committee does not recommend this proposal but the Select Board recommended the renovations in a 2-1 vote Voters will decide if Marion will leave the Green Communities Program and remove the Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code from the Marion bylaws Towns that adopt the Stretch Energy Code must meet specific energy efficient demands for constructing low-rise residential and commercial buildings including new building additions over 1,000 feet and renovations that are more than 50% of the home and exceed 1,000 feet New construction and renovations that apply to the code have certain requirements to meet including installation of enhanced insulation The construction of “mixed-fuel” households that use fossil fuels must also install renewable energy sources to offset energy use The Select Board recommended that the town delete the section of the Marion bylaw containing the Stretch Energy Code in a 2-1 vote Voters will decide if the town will appropriate $300,000 worth of free cash to fund an accelerated pavement and sidewalk management plan with approximately $50,000 from these funds going toward repairs over a five year period A citizens’ petition will also be voted upon that would appropriate $2.7 million to be used “as a first priority” for repairs of sidewalks said that the proposal “will ensure public safety and benefit the greatest number of residents and visitors.”  He stated that the town must prioritize the roads and sidewalks because they are “in a serious state of disrepair and will only get worse.” Town Administrator Geoffrey Gorman said that all of the road and sidewalk repairs “cannot be addressed in one budget cycle” and that the issue needs to be addressed over time The town is proposing the creation of a historic district in Marion #61-78 Pleasant Street and #8-16 Spring Street The district would exclude two commercial business properties that were deemed to have insignificant  historic value Property owners would have to abide by guidelines for exterior construction new construction and demolition to preserve Marion’s historic buildings Chair of the Marion Historic District Study Committee said the proposed district would benefit all Marion residents by preserving the town’s historic character Regulations on accessory dwelling units and short term rentals will be voted upon at Town Meeting which are smaller secondary living structures that accompany a principle building is meant to increase housing in Massachusetts accessory dwelling units must be smaller than half the floor area of the principle building or 1,200 feet The units must also include a separate entrance from the principal residence and one off-street parking space unless the property owner receives exemption from the Zoning Board of Appeals state and local regulations for single-family homes a property owner can only have one accessory dwelling unit on a given lot and short term rentals will not be permitted with the minimum leasing period having to be greater than 31 days The town is proposing the transfer or appropriation of $70,000 from available treasury funds to implement a consolidated three-year educational curriculum that would standardize math studies across the Tri-Town The Select Board and Finance Committee recommend this proposal Harbormaster removal from Police Department A citizens’ petition proposes the removal of the Harbormaster from the Police Department placing the department under the authority of the Town Manager Select Board member Toby Burr created the petition stating that it would be cheaper to run the Harbormaster Department under the town rather than the police department due to the increased salaries and benefits of Police Department employees It’s a job to seek compromise and talk and listen and so that’s a very different outlook than a police department,” he said said that no one spoke to the Commission in advance of this petition being filed and he does not see the benefit of placing the Harbormaster under the authority of the town Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInMARION COUNTY (WMBF) - The Marion County Sheriff’s Office says they responded to a nightclub shooting Saturday morning deputies responded to a “shots fired with multiple victims” call at the H2O Club located at 4524 Highway 76 Deputies said no victims were located at the club when they arrived Officials said they have located one victim has non-life-threatening injuries MCSO is asking anyone with any information to contact 843-423-8399 or mcsoevidence@marionsc.org Iowa — The Marion Farmers Market opened for the season Saturday in its new home at Willowood Park Dozens of vendors filled the park with fresh produce Marion City Council also launched weekly office hours at the market giving residents a chance to chat with local leaders each Saturday through Sept – A 17-year-old boy arrested in Marion County has been charged as an adult accused of sexually exploiting children whom he would search for on the video game Roblox Christian Scribben was initially arrested April 16 when the Ocala Police Department’s SWAT team helped execute a search warrant at his home along 40th Avenue Road the Marion County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement Facing charges of directing a sexual performance by a child utilizing a computer to solicit a child while misrepresenting age and unlawful use of a two-way communications device Scribben was being held without bond at the Marion County Jail [See how the state is tackling the way Roblox is marketing to kids in the video below] 28 received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that a Roblox user in Marion County was “directing children to molest their younger siblings and produce child sexual abuse material (CSAM)” on the popular online game While the search warrant was being executed — during which several of Scribben’s devices were collected — the 17-year-old provided user information that confirmed he was the owner of the account referenced in the tip Scribben allegedly admitted to “proactively searching for children on Roblox daily whom he would instruct to engage in sexual activity with their siblings and create CSAM,” the sheriff’s office said adding “he has done this to four or five children a day he would move the conversation to either Discord or text messaging Scribben advised that most of the CSAM he demanded was used for sexual gratification he just wanted proof that the sexual abuse was actually occurring as he directed Scribben went on to admit that he would misrepresent his age to appear more “acceptable” to young children and that he has done this to four or five children a day Further investigation to identify the victims in this case is ongoing citing multiple reports of children being exposed to “graphic or harmful material” while using the game “There are concerning reports that this gaming platform is exposing them to harmful content and bad actors We are issuing a subpoena to Roblox to uncover how this platform is marketing to children and to see what policies they are implementing — if any — to avoid interactions with predators,” Uthmeier‘s office said in a news release Roblox had more than 85 million daily active users an estimated 40% of whom being under the age of 13.” urged anyone with information to contact Detective Osthed at 352-351-4710 News 6 is naming and showing Scribben due to the circumstances of the case joined the ClickOrlando team in November 2021 – Widespread rain swept across Central Florida on Sunday as the U.S Forest Service and Florida Forest Service worked to contain ongoing brush fires in Marion County The SE 1st Street Fire, reported at 150 acres as of Friday had since been mapped at 256 acres and was 80% contained as of Saturday evening The fire had prompted an evacuation order Friday evening for Highway 314 in east Marion County which was rescinded within several hours of being issued Sunday’s rain was expected to greatly assist the last stages of the operation also brought lightning with it and as we know lightning can ignite fires in root systems that smolder unseen until fuels dry out When that happens they can emerge into fresh fuel and fan to life as was the case recently with the Fernadez Fire,” the release states “By no means is today’s precipitation a ‘season ending event.’ The sun will come out Continue to be vigilant for signs of fire going into the week and call in smoke reports to 911.” Two other fires mentioned in the release had been either largely or totally extinguished at the time of this report North of State Road 40 and Waldena Lake — had seen good progress made in the last few days despite the amount of accumulated swamp duff adding crews would continue to monitor it daily in the short term The Narrow 2 Fire — a car fire along FR 88 / 11 — was taken care of by two USFS engines and a dozer Home / News / Crime & Courts Masked robber was identified after police saw his sinister clown tattoo CEDAR RAPIDS — A Marion man who was identified as a suspect by a sinister clown tattoo on his leg pleaded guilty and was sentenced Thursday for a lesser charge in the armed robbery of a convenience store last May Jamey Lee Heil originally charged with first-degree robbery made an Alford plea to second-degree robbery he didn’t admit guilty but admitted the prosecution had sufficient evidence for a conviction Heil admitted to intentionally robbing the Kum & Go at 1203 Blairs Ferry Rd in Marion and putting the clerk in “immediate fear of injury” on May 25 Sixth Judicial District Senior Judge Patrick Grady sentenced Heil to up to 10 years in prison Heil must serve a mandatory five years before being eligible for parole Heil declined to comment during sentencing The victim didn’t submit a victim impact statement and didn’t attend the hearing black-and-white hat with a “Pennywise” logo — a character from a Stephen King horror novel — and a dark hooded sweatshirt but said the robber told her to “pop the register” and pulled up his sweatshirt to display a black pistol in his waistband Surveillance video showed the suspect pulling out a black pistol using his left hand and holding the gun close to his body as he demanded money He had a visible tattoo on his right hand and both legs and appeared to be between 5-foot-5 to 5-foot-8 with a slim build and a beard Another surveillance camera from a business behind the convenience store showed the suspect wearing the same mask and Pennywise logo hat as he entered the south parking lot of the store in a blue Ford Explorer just before the robbery He was wearing shorts to reveal the clown tattoo on his left leg running back to the Explorer and he was carrying a 12-pack of beer — the same brand that’s captured on store surveillance video Investigators found the Explorer was registered to a woman who had photos of Heil on her social media account Some of the photos of him showed the clown tattoo and others on his legs Officers also obtained a search warrant of his home where police found more items he used in the robbery police said following his arrest last year When Heil talked with police about the robbery “I made a huge mistake,” according to the criminal complaint Comments: (319) 398-8318; trish.mehaffey@thegazette.com Reporter covering state and federal courts. Subscribe to the Public Safety newsletter Centralia pitcher Maddy Francois was stellar in the circle Thursday against Marion pitching 7 and 1/3 innings with 14 strikeouts and two hits Marion junior pitcher Alana Bryant held Centralia scoreless in eight innings of work in a pitchers’ duel Thursday Centralia’s Josie Venturini sends the ball into the air during an at bat Thursday afternoon against Marion Marion center fielder Maecee Coleman camps underneath a fly ball before making the catch in Thursday’s conference home game against Centralia Marion starting pitcher Drew Vaughn pitched five innings and struck out five in Thursday’s conference home game against Centralia Centralia pitcher Archie Goewey gave up three runs on just two hits Thursday afternoon against Marion Centralia right fielder Michael Organ looks into the sun while trying to find a pop fly in Thursday’s road contest at Marion Marion’s Aiden Pickles looks at head coach Kyle Geiger at third base for a sign in Thursday’s home game against Centralia MARION — Centralia and Marion’s softball and baseball teams were locked in some low-scoring South Seven Conference battles Thursday when inclement weather forced the suspension of both contests Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Get the best experience and stay connected to your community with our Spectrum News app. Learn More — The Marion County Sheriff’s Office said that the evacuation order has been lifted for residents in parts of east Marion County after firefighters battled a wildfire in the area of Highway 314 on Friday night. The roadway has been reopened People are being told by the sheriff’s office to refrain from any unnecessary travel in the area as crews continue to work Firefighters from the Florida Forest Service and U.S Forest Service completed confinement lines around the fire late Friday night with strike teams of dozers and ground resources with plans to strengthen and monitor through the evening adding that residents can expect continued smoke impacts in the area Forest Service announced that affected residents received a reverse-911 alert at around 7:15 p.m bulldozers and aerial support tankers were dispatched to the scene and Marion County Fire Rescue was assisting and draft analysts have already moved on to next year’s class Coming off a 12-2 season and the program’s first College Football Playoff appearance Boise State is loaded with future NFL talent on both sides of the ball Boise State Broncos on SI is highlighting Boise State’s top 10 draft-eligible prospects for 2026 10 draft prospect for 2026: Cornerback A’Marion McCoy McCoy emerged as Boise State’s top cover corner last season He had a 35-yard interception return for a touchdown against San Diego State 176-pound McCoy didn’t make the all-Mountain West Conference team but was named an honorable mention All-American by College Football Network McCoy initially planned to head off to the NFL after the 2024 season but opted to take advantage of an NCAA waiver granting additional eligibility to former junior college players McCoy spent two seasons at Laney College before transferring to Boise State in 2023 “Just being able to maximize my potential all the way improving in my game in different ways,” McCoy said last month on his decision to return to the Broncos “People want to see a little more in my game so I just feel like coming back and being able to maximize my potential was the best decision for me.” Boise State head coach Spencer Danielson called McCoy’s return “A huge deal.” seeing his growth as a leader on this team seeing who he was when he first came here two years ago to who he is now it’s a monster deal for our team to get him back,” Danielson added “I believe his best football is in front of him.” A graduate of Menlo-Atherton High School in the California Bay Area McCoy recorded six interceptions in his two seasons at Laney College 96 overall JUCO prospect for the class of 2023 by 247Sports McCoy made seven starts during the 2023 season and received all-MWC honorable mention five pass breakups and three interceptions McCoy projects as a nickel or dime back with solid coverage and ball skills According to NFLDraftScout.com’s scout notes McCoy will need to add weight to play in the NFL NFL Mock Draft Database has McCoy ranked as the No BOB LUNDEBERGBob Lundeberg is a reporter for Boise State Broncos On SI. An Oregon State graduate, Bob has lived in Idaho since 2019 and is an avid hiker and golfer. The 150-acre wildfire burning in the Ocala National Forest was 75% contained as of midday May 3 a wildlife mitigation specialist with the Florida Forest Service She said there's still smoke in the area and crews remain at the scene plowing lines and doing their best to contain the fire more than 50 people have been involved in fighting this fire since it started the afternoon of May 2 Marion County Fire Rescue and the Florida Forest Service Bond urged people to stay away from the area generally described as State Road 40 East near County Road 314 Local fire data Check out the Star-Banner's data page According to a meteorologist from the National Weather Service's Jacksonville office there's a 30% chance of rain forecast for May 3 the weatherman said the chance of rain increases to 50% to 60% the next rainfall opportunity is some time later in the week Marion County Sheriff's Office officials who are assisting first responders said they're monitoring the situation and will be on hand if needed an evacuation order was issued for parts of northeast Marion County as the 150-acre fire spread in the Ocala National Forest Authorities temporarily closed CR 314 between Southeast First Road and SR 40 More fire coverage: Dry conditions raise risk of fire Officials had created a reunification area for those told to leave It was the Winn Dixie at 15912 SR 40 East in Silver Springs A sheriff's office spokesman at the scene Friday night said no one showed up Three other fires in the forest — one in Lynne one near Lake Charles and a third at Bombing Range 11 — were under control as of May 3 "The area remains very dry with relative humidities in the 30s to low 40% There is a chance of thunderstorms this afternoon and tomorrow like pile burns," the federal agency wrote in a May 3 Facebook post "There is a burn ban in place for Lake County and Marion County is under a voluntary do not burn request Please be extremely careful with any potential ignition source."