OG Digital Edition 05-02-2025 by Magnolia Media Company

A special salute

Family members, friends and others throw WWII veteran a 101st birthday celebration.

By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com

World War II

veteran Howard Mautner celebrated his

101st birthday with family members and friends on April 27 in Ocala.

Mautner, a Chicago native, was born on April 28, 1924. He joined the US Army in September 1942 in the wake of

the Dec. 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor attack. His service in Europe included being an Army Air Corps control tower operator and directing aircraft using

See 101st birthday, page A2

Family brings local cattle operation full circle

Matt Rudnianyn

has purchased the former Adena Farms operation in Fort McCoy and plans to raise, harvest and deliver meat locally.

By Jennifer Hunt Murty

jennifer@ocalagazette.com

Family cattle operations have been romanticized through television shows and movies over the last century as the number of them has dwindled. But one local family, which has been raising cattle for generations, has now acquired a Marion County beef processing plant in order to keep more local beef, well, local.

While the harvesting of cattle is the least romantic part of taking beef to market, the new owners of the plant plan to continue using the best practices established by the

prior owner, which seek to reduce stress on the animals and treat them “with respect,” said Corban Russell, general manager for the plant.

The Fort McCoy processing plant and the surrounding 696 acres that were developed by Canadian businessman Frank Stronach for raising and processing beef under the Adena Farms brand were sold recently to Fort McCoy Plant, LLC, whose principle is Matt C. Rudnianyn. According to public records, he paid at least $6.3 million for the real estate.

Rudnianyn’s family, including his father, John Rudnianyn, is likely the largest landowner in Marion County and the

acres that surround the plant look like something out of what you imagine the land looked like in Patrick Smith’s book “A Land Remembered.”

Rudnianyn, 47, said he has been cattle ranching since he was “we-tall” with his grandfather.

Historically, he has run a cow-calf operation, which focuses on building a breeding herd. The male calves are often sold off when they reach about 400 to 500 pounds to prevent inbreeding, while a large portion of the heifers are kept and introduced to new steers.

See Beef Market, page A7

“Melodic Metamorphosis” opens May 2

The immersive art exhibit will include live performances, with proceeds benefitting two local nonprofit organizations.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

Sometimes, from sorrow comes inspiration. Such was the case after Joan Wilson Zink passed away on Nov. 22, 2023, in DeLand. A few months later, the award-winning author, playwright, composer and poet’s daughter, Laurie Zink, of Ocala, began to think about what to do with her mother’s beloved 1915 Hamilton-Baldwin baby grand piano.

“It was her passion. She composed several musicals on the piano, among other things. When she passed, I didn’t really know what to do with it,” Zink noted.

With the Japanese philosophy and art of kintsugi—repairing broken items with gold to honor their history—in mind, Zink said the idea of transforming the piano into a piece of art was born.

“Art, like people, can become even more beautiful after transformation. I began to think that the music, the wood, everything about it could be a pretty special art piece with the right person,” Zink shared.

“So, I called David Kellner and I said, ‘Is this a project that you might appreciate?’ And he said it was something he had wanted to do his whole artistic life of fabrication. Well, it’s really hard to find someone who will let you break a grand piano up into pieces, so we began to brainstorm. And then we brought in Jessica Carter because my mother also was a published poet and she could do something with the actual music and poetry,” Zink explained.

“I received a call from Laurie on Black Friday in 2024. She said her mom had passed away and was a well-known poet and musician and had written many songs. She

See Metamorphosis, page A6

General Manager Corban Russell, left, and Matt Rudnianyn, who is one of the owners, right, talk about the harvesting floor area at the Fort McCoy plant on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. The Rudnianyn family recently purchased the ranch and the facility, formerly known as Adena Farms, which was owned and started by Frank Stronach around 2013.

World War II veteran Howard Mautner displays a photo of himself taken at the age of 18, during the war.

Doug Moody, a meat fabricator/cutter, cuts sirloin baseball steaks at the Fort McCoy plant north of Fort McCoy, Fla. on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

The harvesting floor is shown at the Fort McCoy plant north on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

Musical notes created by artist David Kellner.

[Photo courtesy of the artist]

101st birthday

Continued from page A1

radio “before computers,” he stated. He served in North Africa, Italy and Austria.

A cake at Mautner’s table at Mission Barbecue was decorated with “101-Happy Birthday Howard,” an image of a World War II-era aircraft and a set of dog tags labeled “USA 1942-1946.” Mautner wore a cap marked “World War II Veteran” as he spoke to well-wishers.

Mautner said that during World War II military pilots had primary, basic and advanced flight training. He said if a biplane like a Stearman PT- 17 was used at the aviation training site in Ocala, the facility would’ve been considered a primary training center.

According to the Museum of Florida History website, the World War II-era Greenville Aviation School in Ocala, which was located in the area around State Road 200 and Southwest 17th Street, used the Stearman-designed Kaydet PT-17 trainer and more than 5,000 cadets “received primary flight training at this location until the school closed in September 1944.”

The area along SR 200 where hangars once stood now houses industrial and retail concerns. The school was originally located in Greenville, Mississippi, and the name was kept.

Retired Army captain and Vietnam War combat veteran Steve Petty, the president and director of the Vet Resource Center and CEO of Marion County Veterans Helping Veterans USA, was on hand at the birthday party to wish Mautner well.

“Mautner is a member of the Greatest Generation, who went and fought and came home and built again,” Petty said, adding that his

father, Oscar Petty, was a World War II veteran who was at Omaha Beach during the D-Day invasion.

Leslie Chandler and Cynthia Sass, the daughters of Mautner’s brother, Richard Mautner, traveled to Ocala from Boulder, Colorado, to celebrate their Uncle Howard’s birthday. Richard Mautner died in 2005 at age 85. He served as an aircraft commander/pilot of a B-17 bomber during World War II.

Chandler said her Uncle Howard and other family members operated a retail clothing and shoe store in Wisconsin. Howard moved first to Winter Haven in Florida, then to Ocala. He is a widower who has been married twice, according to family members.

Chandler said her uncle’s “amazing group of friends are the reason he’s living independently.”

Richard Bell, a friend who visits Mautner about three times a week at his northeast Ocala home, accompanied Mautner to the

MCSO INVESTIGATES SHOOTING DEATH

By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com

The victim in a fatal shooting in the southeast Marion County/ Belleview area on Monday, April 28, 2025, has been identified by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.

Tevin Edward Hargrove, 33, died at a local hospital after he was found injured at a residence near Southeast 128th Street and Southeast 107th Court around 12:25 a.m. by responding deputies who began first aid, according to a post on the MCSO Facebook page. Major crimes homicide detectives are investigating.

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birthday gathering.

Bob and Barbara Schmidt, both Navy veterans and guests at the gathering, played a video birthday greeting to Mautner from Brig. General Ernest C. Audino with the Department of Defense National Guard Bureau Management Office in Arlington, Virginia.

Several members of local veterans’ related organizations, including Pam Driggers, Todd Belknap and Audrey Dewey, joined the gathering.

Melby Lopez, a guest at the restaurant, noticed the gathering and stopped by Mautner’s table.

“It gave me goosebumps,” she said about meeting him and hearing about his service.

“Ocala is very supportive of veterans,” Chandler said.

Photos by Andy Fillmore

MOTORCYCLIST DIES FOLLOWING TRAFFIC COLLISION

By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com

A74-year-old New Port Richey man

died as the result of a traffic crash in southeast Marion County on April

26, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The FHP press release stated that around 4:11 p.m. an 80-year-old Weirsdale woman who was traveling eastbound on Sunset Harbor Road

stopped at the stop sign at the intersection of County Road 25 and then entered CR 25. The victim, who was riding a motorcycle southbound on CR 25, collided with the side of the SUV.

The rider, who was not wearing a helmet, was pronounced deceased at a local hospital. The SUV driver, who was wearing a seat belt, sustained minor injuries, the release stated.

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World War II veteran Howard Mautner was treated to a special celebration on April 27, one day ahead of his 101st birthday.

Howard Mautner poses with his nieces Cynthia Sass, left, and Leslie Chandler at his 101st birthday celebration in Ocala.

Marion County Sheriff’s Office personnel are investigating a shooting death in southeast Marion County. [Photo by Andy Fillmore]

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

SECO ENERGY SCHOLARSHIP AWARDEES

The SECO Energy board of trustees approved $36,000 in scholarships to 12 high school seniors graduating this year who reside in homes served by SECO.

The students exemplify academic excellence and leadership within their communities, the news release stated.

DISTINGUISHED GRADUATE

Yasieli Perez of Ocala has been named one of Southern Connecticut State University’s 2025 Henry Barnard Distinguished Student Award recipients.

Each year, 12 seniors are chosen by the four Connecticut State Universities, with four each from Southern and Central and two each from Eastern and Western. The Barnard Award is considered among the university’s most prestigious student awards, with criteria including a 3.7 GPA or better and significant participation in university and/or community life, a news release noted.

On April 21, the SECO Youth Programs Committee hosted a special recognition ceremony and each student was awarded a $3,000 scholarship to support their educational journey.

The local students, their schools and major areas of interest are Abigail Colon, West Port High School, animal science; Suhani Nihalani, Vanguard High School, biomedical engineering; Isabella Raistrick, West Port High School, nursing; and Zachary Townsend, Belleview High School, constructional engineering.

According to the release, Perez earned a B.S. in sociology with a concentration in criminology and criminal

GRADUATE AND SENIOR

ROTARY CLUB AWARDS FIVE SCHOLARSHIPS

The Rotary Club of Ocala Silver Springs recently awarded $1,500 scholarships to five local students who won Community Service Awards.

During their four years in high school, the five students volunteered at many different organizations in Ocala and Marion County, documenting well over 2,500 service hours. They also participated in extracurricular activities and held leadership positions in many organizations.

The recipients are Amy Caroline Rauls, Redeemer Christian School; Alexandra Rose Laciuga, Vanguard High School; Kayden Zori Mitchell,

Trinity Catholic High; Rachel Leigh Milbrandt, Vanguard High; and Jonathan Lamar Ancrum, Belleview High.

The students were asked to draft an essay titled “What Service Above Self Means to Me” and to highlight one organization or situation that meant a great deal to them.

“All of the recipients have committed to service above self while in college and beyond because they know what all Rotarians know, having a servant’s heart gives you more joy by serving than the joy received by those you serve,” the release stated.

justice and a minor in political science. She served as president of the Organization of Latin American Students, where her goal was to create inclusive spaces for Latinx students. She also served as vice president of the Sociology and Criminology Club, as a resident advisor and as a peer mentor, among other leadership roles. She earned places on the Dean’s List and President’s List and received awards for academic and athletic distinction. The five internships she has completed have each connected to her interests in policy and advocacy.

After graduating, Perez plans to complete a master’s degree in higher education or pursue a Ph.D. in sociology.

SENIOR SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT

SummerGlen recently held its 11th annual 70’s Softball Tournament. Seven teams from different 55+ communities participated in a double elimination tournament. Players had to be at least 70 years young.

The oldest participant was 82.

The other communities involved were Oak Run, On Top of The World, Stone Creek, Spruce Creek South, Stone Crest, Holiday/Arlington and Del Webb.

Those who wish to learn about playing in the competitive games can email Jay Winn atkjwinn@ gmail.com.

Sheriff responds to whistleblower lawsuit over inmate care, denies allegations

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods has responded to a lawsuit filed by former employee Mary Coy, who accused the sheriff of wrongful termination after she complained about perceived inhumane treatment of inmates in the Marion County Jail. Coy, a certified jail auditor, worked at the jail from February 2018 until August 2024, when she claims she was wrongfully terminated from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office for bringing forward concerns about the quality of care provided by Heart of Florida Health Center, the agency contracted for all inmate medical care.

Coy has been licensed as a registered nurse since 1985, according to the Florida Department of Health. Originally, it was part of Coy’s job description and duties to investigate and resolve inmate medical complaints. Heart of Florida staff argued that Coy bringing forward these concerns about inmate care was outside of her job description, and that she was not authorized to give

medical advice.

During her time as the jail’s medical liaison, Coy filed monthly quality assurance reports to the head of the jail detailing compliance, or lack of compliance, with the jail’s policies for timely medical care.

Meghan Taylor was hired by MCSO to fill Coy’s place as jail medical liaison. As of February, no quality assurance reports have been filed in the six months since Coy’s termination.

WOODS’ DEFENSE:

Woods’ response to the lawsuit claims Coy failed to establish that she meets the criteria for being protected under the Whistleblower Act; failed to establish that the reason for

her termination was due to her “whistleblower activity”; and failed to prove she sustained damages from loss of earnings after termination.

Woods also claims the actions of the sheriff’s office were not discriminatory. Regarding Coy’s repeated complaints about the quality of inmate care, Woods claims the department “acted promptly” to investigate or remedy any alleged violations of law.

COY’S ALLEGATIONS

In her lawsuit, Coy alleged she was retaliated against for making formal and informal complaints.

In November 2022, Coy wrote a letter to MCSO Human Resources Director Monica

Chrisholm and Woods saying she felt a responsibility to bring forward her concerns about inmates not receiving appropriate medical treatment in accordance with the laws and standards she was hired to uphold.

Rather than investigating her concerns, the MCSO Office of Professional Standards opened an administrative investigation into Coy’s job performance, conducted by Capt. Brian Spivey.

“The conclusion of Capt. Spivey’s administrative review resulted in a change in Liaison Coy’s job duties, specifically her no longer having the responsibility to investigate and resolve inmate complaints,” according to the administrative review.

A clause was also added to her job description to prevent her from being directly involved in inmate care. Coy accused the agency of illegal workplace retaliation in November 2022 for doing so. An internal MCSO investigation found her allegations to be unsubstantiated.

From the time of the internal investigation into Coy’s claims of retaliation in 2022 until July 2024, Coy complied with her new job description to only monitor inmate care, even though she continued to have serious

concerns about inmate neglect.

“Then, in July 2024, (Coy) reported the sheriff’s deliberate indifference to the serious medical needs of an inmate,” according to the lawsuit.

“Despite her efforts to highlight deficiencies, corrective actions were continually disregarded.”

Coy’s attorney claims that during that time, Coy uncovered falsified medical records for mental health treatment for inmates, including documented assessments for inmates who had never been seen or treated, according to the lawsuit.

Coy reported this to MCSO Major Clint Bowen, who ran the jail, other high-ranking MCSO officials, jail administration and medical staff. The next month, Coy was terminated from her position as jail medical liaison and escorted off the premises, according to her employment file.

The case will be presided over by Fifth Circuit Judge Lisa Herndon. Coy demands compensation for her economic loss, attorneys’ fees and a trial by jury.

Woods is being represented by attorney Wes Gay, of Allen Norton & Blue. Gay specializes in labor and employment law.

As of April 30, no court events have been scheduled.

Rotary Club of Ocala Silver Springs scholarship recipients are shown with Bill Cox, scholarship committee member and club vice president. [Submitted photo]

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn, left, and board president Gerald Anderson, right, are shown with the 2025 SECO Energy Youth Scholarship awardees. [Submitted photo]

Yasieli Perez [Submitted photo]

Lloyd Ogilvie, of the Oak Run community, was one of the tournament players. [Photo by Randie Duretz]

Tea and fashion show fundraiser

The May 10 event will offer an elegant and fun way to celebrate Mother’s Day.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

Mother’s Day is approaching and one way to celebrate would be to take yourself and a guest—maybe your Mom—to a Mother’s Day Tea & Fashion Show on May 10.

The event will run from 2 to 4pm at the Grace Episcopal Church Parish Hall at 505 SE Broadway St., in downtown Ocala.

The fashion show will be narrated by church member Tamara Fleischhaker and will feature fashions for all ages from these downtown Ocala merchants: Serendipity Boutique, Her Kloset at Greiner’s, Agapanthus, Karishma Boutique, Riv + Rai Curated Kids Wear, Marley

Mae Market & Paperie, Mary’s Bridal Couture and Ivy On The Square Boutique. The event is free to attend, with options to donate to support local people in need. The proceeds will benefit CASA (Community Action Stops Abuse) Marion, which has a mission of challenging the societal acceptance of all forms of domestic violence and stands up to silence through advocacy, prevention, intervention and support services.

“Grace Episcopal Church is committed to helping women and children in need. CASA Marion serves that population and is a nonprofit we contribute to on an ongoing basis. Money raised from donations and the sale of raffle tickets will be given to CASA Marion,” said Jeanne Henningsen, one of the organizers of the fashion show and tea. Henningsen said dressing up for the event is not necessary but “we are suggesting typical Sunday church attire.” Guests may bring along their own favorite teacup and saucer, but it is not mandatory.

“They don’t have to bring it, they get to bring it,” Henningsen explained. “We are making it a fun way to get to know each other during the event. We do have extras if they don’t have a special one they’d like to bring.”

The menu will include tea cakes, cookies and other dessert items. There will be goodie bags, raffle items and door prizes. And, of course, a variety of fashions.

“Our models are all lovely ladies ranging in age from 7 years old to in their 70s,” Henningsen shared.

Seating for the event is limited and prospective attendees are asked to RSVP by May 3 at https://bit.ly/4j7tzfA

For more information, contact Henningsen at (407) 252-1190.

Community urges national search for school superintendent

A special meeting of the Marion County School Board was held April 29 to officially appoint an interim leader and hear thoughts from residents.

By Lauren Morrish lauren@ocalagazette.com

Aspecial meeting of the Marion County School Board on the evening of April 29 revealed a public consensus that Danielle Brewer is the right choice as interim superintendent for now, but a national search should be conducted to find the next superintendent.

The meeting was organized to officially appoint Brewer as interim superintendent and approve her employment agreement. Public comments, however, proved the community is looking ahead at the future of the school district and urged the board to do the same.

Ten community members were given five minutes each to vocalize their concerns. A majority of them had opinions about the upcoming search to replace current Superintendent Diane Gullett, but agreed Brewer would excel in the meantime.

The first speaker was Marion County Public Schools Area Director Ben Whitehouse, who said he had worked closely with Brewer at two high schools starting in 2010.

“I can honestly say without hesitation that

working with her at both schools made me a better leader,” he said. “Her genuine love and concern for both the students and staff we supported was something to admire.”

Whitehouse said Brewer improved school climates and grades with a clear focus on helping the students and staff succeed, holding them to high expectations.

“I support Dr. Brewer wholeheartedly as an educator, leader, a champion

for our students and as our interim superintendent,” he said.

Three other speakers shared strong supporting sentiments on behalf of Brewer, including former MCPS principal Gary Smallridge, who believes Brewer could become a permanent superintendent.

Smallridge worked closely with Brewer at Fort King Middle School and together they helped raise the school grade to a “B” and maintained it the following year.

“Dr. Brewer is the right choice as your interim superintendent and I cannot support her any more than what has been said,” Smallridge stated.

Smallridge said the public was talking as if national searches were a recurring process in Marion County, but pointed out the district had only done one before when they hired Gullett. He said Brewer was appointed to be in Gullett’s cabinet and is more than good enough to fill this position.

“Do the national search, but what I want to caution you on is do not eliminate Dr. Brewer from being considered for the national search because you spent 40, 50, 60 thousand dollars conducting a national search,” Smallridge said.

Board member Eric Cummings echoed those sentiments and reassured the public that Brewer’s employment agreement does not limit her from applying for the permanent superintendent position.

The other speakers were focused less on Brewer and more on what would follow when her one-year contract ends.

Marion County Republican State Committeewoman Patricia Schafer spoke on behalf of Republican State Committee Chair Brigette Smith.

“I am here to express that, on behalf of the Marion County Republican Executive Committee, and the nearly 140,000 registered republicans that we represent, our absolute, unequivocal expectation is a national search for the permanent superintendent,” Schafer said.

She said an appointed superintendent allows a large pool to search for the best and brightest candidate. To further support her point of a national search, Schafer read a quote by Smith that was published in a previous article in the “Gazette.”

The statement was: “We believe the students of Marion County Public Schools deserve the best opportunities to reach success. Our current ranking compared to the other 66 counties is abysmal. I think every parent would agree that MCPS should conduct a nationwide search for our next superintendent; not sure that hiring from within a failing school district is our best option.”

Prior to the meeting, Marion County NAACP Branch 5114 sent out a message calling all Democrats to attend to urge the school board members “to use the process in place to select the next permanent Marion County Superintendent of Schools,” according to their call to action.

Kiersten Angel asked the board to consider whether it wants Brewer to be the interim superintendent, let alone a permanent one.

“We need and want someone who would be subject to a national search,” Angel said. “We need and want a job description. We need and want a timeline from you all that says what we are going to be doing in hiring this person.” Angel suggested asking the teachers and employees what they expect of a school superintendent and told the board to prioritize this national search.

“We need leadership, we need direction, and I think it’s very important that we get this in our school superintendent,” Angel said.

Board member Allison Campbell asked the other members if they would be interested in conducting their own community survey, similar to what a national search firm did when they found Gullett.

“So, while we are certainly hearing, and I believe wholeheartedly, that a national search is important, if the majority of our community does not believe that that’s important, then we can know in advance and actually use that to guide our decision making,” Campbell said.

While the board did not indicate its official plan for a superintendent search, the members agreed that conducting a community survey would be wise. Only vague comments were provided to “see how it goes” with the interim superintendent before hiring a firm for a costly national search.

“I’ll finish by saying, welcome, Dr. Brewer,” board member Nancy Thrower said. “Thank you for taking on this huge lift. Please know that you have a lot of people behind you. The board voted unanimously to support you in this contract for the next year and I very much look forward to continuing to work with you.”

Gullett will retain control over district operations until the end of her term on July 11. During this time, Brewer will have the opportunity to recommend candidates for any job vacancies in the district. Brewer will earn a base salary of $169,333 and receive benefits. A successor to become the permanent superintendent must be chosen by April 29, 2026.

To learn more, go to marionschools.net/ school_board

A Mother’s Day Tea & Fashion Show will take place May 10 at Grace Episcopal Church in downtown Ocala.

Eric Cummings, vice chair of the Marion County Public School Board, listens during a Marion County Public School Board meeting on April 22, 2025. [File photo by Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

Danielle Brewer [Photo courtesy Marion County Public Schools]

NAACP Freedom Fund banquet highlights

The annual event saw local leaders receive awards and Cong. Maxwell Frost deliver the keynote address.

By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com

More than 200 guests attended the 43rd annual Marion County NAACP Branch Freedom Fund and Awards Banquet held April 25 at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place in Ocala. The event is a major fundraiser for the branch. It included the presentation of four notableawards.

Lena Hopkins, senior manager of pro bono services for Community Legal Services of Mid- Florida, Inc., received the Community Service Uplift Award in recognition of “25 years dedicated to serving low-income and vulnerable Floridians,” and membership on numerous local non- profits, according to the banquet program.

Hopkins said she was “privileged to make a difference for many in our community and will continue the good fight.”

Marcus Alexander was recognized with the Minority Business Award for his work with Quad Nurse, LLC , established in 2008, which provides “compassionate and competent care” for people with permanent disabilities, the program stated.

The Rev. Estella Ford was presented with the Positive Social Awareness Award for her “compassion, community service and outreach” through Soul Harvest International Ministries, which she established in 1995.

Ford said the outreach provides hot meals to people, including homeless families with children, and T-shirts, and serves areas including West Ocala, Silver Springs and Ocklawaha. She said it is a “pleasure” to serve, and that the feeding ministry has “only missed one Saturday in 30 years.”

Jamie Gilmore, co-founder of Kut Different, received the NAACP President’s Award. He was hailed by current branch President Rev. Jerone Gamble for “uplifting young men” and acting as a “change agent.”

The nonprofit Kut Different is a mentorship/student support and development organization for youth mainly from single parent households. KUT Different has about 125 youth in programs.

“This is a huge honor. I love Ocala and I love our youth,” Gilmore said.

The keynote speaker was Cong. Maxwell Frost, who represents District 10 of Central Florida.

Frost said he felt a “call to action” to join politics after meeting some of the relatives of victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootingsa number of years ago.

During his address, Frost accused the Trump administration of eroding Americans’ Constitutional freedoms. Frost, 28, the selfdescribed “youngest member of Congress,” expressed concern about measures by the administration that might impact Social Security, Medicare or voting rights.

He indicated that recently publicized cases of immigrants accused by the administration of illegal entry or having gang ties and being deported to El Salvador raised questions of denial of “civil rights” and lack of “due process.”

“Black people are disproportionately impacted,” in attacks on voting rights and other federal programs including cuts in DEI or diversity, equality and inclusion programs, Frost said.

He spoke of seeing the “world through the eyes of the most vulnerable.”

“The Trump administrationis trying to rip away things people have fought for,” Frost said. He added that erosion of voting rights could “take away democracy.”

“Where are the adults?,” he asked, referring to scenes of Elon Musk with a chain saw touting DOGE governmental expense cuts as one means to enable “tax cuts to large corporations.”

Frost acknowledged after his talk that he has concerns about possible “racial profiling” in recent rashes of immigration related arrests.

Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano, City Councilman Ire Bethea and City Manager Pete Lee were guests at the banquet. Rev. Eric Cummings, vice chair of the Marion County School Board, spoke, and Robert L. Stevenson Jr., a University of Florida professor of African studies, served as master of ceremonies.

Javarius “Jay” Morant Jr., a member of the branch’s Youth Council, introduced Frost. Freedom Fund Committee Chair Barbara Fitos said these are “unprecedented times” of attacks on “bedrock principles.”

“We will not be silenced; we will not go back,” she said.

The NAACP dates back to 1909 and the organization’s mission statement includes achieving “equity, political rights and social inclusion.” Marion County Branch 5114 was established in 1923 and currently has 182 members.

Herman H. Brown, branchmembership chair, spoke of the organization remaining activewhile other organizations supporting similar causes have faded.

Gamble said after the banquet that Frost’s talk was “outstanding and on point.”

When asked about the biggest challenge the local NAACP branch is facing, Gamble responded, “membership.”

To learn more, go to FB.com/ NAACPofMarionCounty

Photos by Bruce Ackerman

The Rev. Estella Ford of Soul Harvest Word Worship and Praise Ministries Church, right, received the Positive Social Awareness Award from Sarah Greeneduring the 43rdannual NAACP 5114 Marion County Branch Freedom Fund Awards and Banquet at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center At Reed Place in Ocalaon April 25, 2025.

Lena Hopkins, senior manager of pro bono services for Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida, Inc.right, spoke after receiving the Community Service Uplift Award from Marci Owens.

Cherrietta Prince, center, accepted the Minority Business Quad Nurse - Nurse Registry Award for Marcus Alexander, with Francine Julius Edwards, left, and Sarah Greene, right, presenting.

Congressman Maxwell Frost delivered the keynote address at the awards ceremony and banquet.

Eric Cummings, right, speaks as Robert Stevenson Jr., professor of African Studies, University of Florida, the master of ceremony, left, listens during the event.

Jamie Gilmore Jr. of Kut Different, left, received the President’s Award from NAACP 5114 Marion County Branch President Rev. Jerone Gamble.

Metamorphosis

asked if I would take her mom’s piano and maybe come up with an art idea. I was silent for a few minutes, then said, ‘Yes, I have always wanted to tear apart a piano and make projects,’” Kellner recalled. “So, from that point on the idea spread to an art show. I quickly included Jessica in this adventure based on my feeling that our styles of art would complement with this transformational show.”

Viola!

The “Melodic Metamorphosis” monthlong immersive art exhibit was born.

The exhibit will run through May at the Marion Cultural Alliance’s The Brick Gallery in downtown Ocala. The showcase explores the transformative power of music, art and literature, inviting audiences to experience innovative installations and captivating artworks that reflect the rhythm, flow and evolution of artistic expression, noted materials provided by the alliance.

In addition to featuring artworks by Kellner and Carter, the exhibit will include more than 25 additional pieces by other artists.

Zink, Kellner and Carter, who dubbed themselves the Philanthro-Creatives, will donate proceeds from the exhibit, art sales and other activities to the nonprofit Arts In Health Ocala Metro and the Marion County Literacy Council.

“What has transpired since we began working on this is that we have this big opening party on May 2 and the exhibit will be beautiful and we will have an event a week for the entire run, a whole month of activities that focus on art ,spoken word, music and medicine,” Zink said.

For the exhibit, Kellner and Carter created distinctive works using the piano. According to Kellner, he began crafting his artistic narrative in 2012. While a management executive by day, he fuels his passion for art every chance he gets. He is a self-taught artist and uses his “creative instincts to meld elements together to depict unique imagery. His

passion for storytelling shines through an assortment of hand-picked repurposed objects, which he fuses together into mixed media sculptures. Each piece has its own vision and journey, allowing the viewer to interpret their own narrative.”

Carter is a mixed-media collage artist specializing in hand-painted, found papers. Each piece is hand-torn and meshed together to create a story within a painting, begging to be looked at closely to find hidden treasures.

“Hailing from a long line of artisans, Jessica is a self-taught artist. As a Golden Apple Teacher, she has transitioned from teaching elementary math and science to the head of drawing and painting at West Port High School’s Marion County Center of the Arts program. If it were not for teaching, Jessica would never have met the mother/artist Elizabeth St. Hilaire, who inspired her to learn collage art 16 years ago,” her biography states.

Their works in the juried “Melodic Metamorphosis” exhibit will not be judged, but all of the other artist’s pieces will be.

“We have Jennifer Coolidge, executive director of the Atlantic Center for the Arts in New Smyrna, coming over to be the judge for the cash awards,” Zink shared.

In addition, visitors to The Brick can purchase a fan favorite ribbon for $20

each or four for $60, then use the ribbon to vote for the artwork that moves them.

The artist with the most ribbons will be crowned the “Fan Fav” during MCA’s Fam Jam celebration on May 20.

“And all of that ribbon money will go to the charities, along with lots of art being sold,” Zink said. “We’re really excited. We think it’s going to be a great benefit and also give a lot of education about both organizations.”

An opening Fav Fav VIP reception will begin at 3 p.m. on May 2 at the

City Center for the Arts at 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala. An opening reception will begin at 5 p.m., with Natasha

spoken word

with Arts

and healing

Health

Metro, students from the Marion County Literacy Council sharing inspirational works and piano music by local musicians. The events are free and open to the public. On May 3, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gallery Day will include meet and greet opportunities with artists. On May 8, AIHOM will present “Patterns of Transformation” at 5:30 p.m. On May 13, the literacy council will present “An Evening Celebrating the Beauty, Simplicity and Power of Being Read To,” also at 5:30 p.m. And then, on May 20, Couch Sessions Fam Jam at The Brick will begin at 6 p.m. Admission is free to all events, with a suggested donation of $20 and a request for RSVP responses in advance.

In addition, R.J. Jenkins, who is affiliated with the Marion County Literacy Council, will present a series of talks based on Ovid’s “Metamorphoses,” with lectures at 11 a.m. on May 18, and at 5:30 p.m. on 19, 22 and 23.

To learn more, go to mcaocala.org, email gallery@mcaocala.com or call (352) 369-1500.

Lecture

is beginning to mirror how humans make decisions. The recent rise of large language models (LLMs) has brought renewed attention to a style of intelligence that resembles what psychologists call “thinking fast”—quick, intuitive, and contextdriven responses. But human intelligence also relies on a slower,

from

agents performing

I highlight how combining fast, data-driven neural approaches with slower, symbolic reasoning leads to more robust performance. This dual-systems perspective not only provides a promising path for integrating symbolic and neural methods in AI, but also offers a framework for understanding the next generation of intelligent systems—machines that can reason, reflect, and react, all in the flow of thought.

call

Brent’s research sits at the intersection of AI-based preference reasoning and cognitive modeling of human decision making, with the goal of designing intelligent systems that are both adaptive and human-aware. Her work focuses on developing automated models of preference to support decision-making in applications such as recommender systems, human-machine teaming, and behavioral modeling. More recently, she has explored the ethical implications of AI technologies and their potential for advancing social good. She is the co-author of two books and has published more than 100 peer-reviewed articles in leading AI journals and conferences. She collaborates with a number of premier research institutions, including NASA Ames, IBM Research, and NICTA, and her work has been supported by agencies such as NASA, ONR, ARL, NIH, NSF, the Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative, and the Future of Life Institute. Brent graduated Magna Cum Laude in Pure Mathematics from the University of Padova, Italy, and earned her Ph.D. in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence with a dissertation on automatically learning preferences over schedules, developed at NASA Ames in support of the Mars Rovers Spirit and Opportunity. She is currently a Senior Research Scientist at the Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC) and serves as Director of the IHMC–University of West Florida Ph.D. program in Intelligent Systems and Robotics. She is also a Professor of

Brick

JeanPierre,

poet

arts facilitator

Ocala

Joan Wilson Zink is shown with the keyboard from her beloved baby grand piano. [Illustration by Tito Comas]

Jessica Carter works on the top of the baby grand piano. [Photo courtesy of David Kellner]

Artist David Kellner at work for the “Melodic Metamorphosis” exhibit. [Photo courtesy of the artist]

The Philanthro-Creatives, from left, Jessica Carter, David Kellner and Laurie Zink. [Photo courtesy of David Kellner]

Beef Market

Continued from page A1

Other cattle ranchers focus on the “finishing” aspect of raising cattle for harvest. They buy the calves and feed them until they are about 1,300 pounds and ready for market. There are different schools of thought on “added hormones” and whether grass-fed beef or a mixture of grain and grass produces the best-tasting beef.

Opening his own processing plant seemed like the next logical evolution for Matt Rudnianyn, after Stronach reached out about a year and a half to start the discussion.

“All cattle end up at a place like this,” Rudnianyn said as he opened the doors to the plant’s harvesting floor, packed with conveyor belts, extensive drainage and stainless steel machinery. The walls, floors and equipment were all very clean and without odor. The harvesting floor is where about 200 head of cattle are processed each week, not just from their farms but also from about five to seven other farms as well. While cattle ranchers will tout that their beef is different because of the breed or what the cattle eat, Rudnianyn and Russell explained that reducing stress on animals before they are harvested also impacts taste.

Rudniayn said the serpentine designed corral that guides the cattle into the plant is an important part of the operation. It was designed by Temple Grandin, who has studied ways to reduce stress on animals. There is a 2010 a movie about how Grandin developed best practices and Russell said it included her getting in the corral herself to experience what the animal experienced.

The floor footing of the corral is designed in a way so the cattle don’t slide around and get hurt. The plant walls are insulated so the noise of the loud machines stays inside and the cattle outside have the benefit of a quiet environment. The cover for the open-air corral is insulated to lessen the noise from rainstorms.

On the “Gazette’s” tour of the plant, we were joined by T.J. Baldwin, of the Baldwin Angus family of ranchers, who has worked with Rudnianyn on his cattle operation in northwest Marion County for approximately 12 years.

Both Rudnianyn and Baldwin said they started processing cows a few years ago for their own families, friends and customers.

“Matt and I wanted to know what we were feeding our families, so we started years ago, harvesting whole cows for our own use and for friends who requested it,now we have the plant to do that part ourselves too,” Baldwin said.

“There is a market of people who want to know where their food comes from around here and, as a local custom processor, we’ll be able to fill a need for the consumer and the other local ranches,” Rudnianyn

He said he would like to increase the number of local cattle ranchers who use his processing plant.

The company will sell direct to the public through it’s webportal, adenafarms.com, which can deliver frozen beef to a doorstep anywhere in Florida and Southern Georgia, and also delivers fresh beef to local restaurants.

If you are wondering what it costs to stock your freezer with a whole or half grass-fed/grass finished cow, options run from ¼ cow (108 pounds of beef) for

approximately $1,425 to a whole cow (482 pounds) at $4,669. For those who might want to try the beef without buying

in bulk, options start at $10 per pound for ground beef.

All of the beef is hand-cut, which is another difference from big box processors that use lasers to scan and cut beef into equal portions. The knife skills it takes to butcher a cow take years to master, Russell noted.

One local restaurant, Charlie Horse Bar & Grill, has been purchasing ground beef from the plant since the beginning of the year and manager Cindy Tinsley said the decision to switch to the local beef was fairly easy.

“It’s local beef, they matched the cost of larger beef purveyors and everyone has liked it,” Tinsley said.

Baldwin said a few other local restaurants have also started buying ground beef from them, including Scrambles, Wise Guy’s, Braised Onion and Sister’s Place, which recently expanded to a new venue in Williston.

We asked Rudnianyn how

he likes his beef cooked and he replied “medium rare.” He said he prefers cattle that have been fed a mixture of grain and grass.

“But the Adena brand of grass-fed beef is tasty,” he added

When asked how many acres and heads of cattle he has across Marion County, his eyes sort of glazed over, and either in what seemed to be a gesture of humility or humor, he answered, “I don’t know.” Russell then empathetically told me, “There was a time when I didn’t know many cowboys too, so I’ll tell you what I learned — asking them how many acres and how many head of cattle is like asking you how much is in your bank account.”

To learn more, go to adenafarms.com

PRESENTS:

Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Matt Rudnianyn, who is one of the owners, left, and General Manager Corban Russell, right, talk about the corral at the Fort McCoy plant north of Fort McCoy, Fla. on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

The Charlie Horse restaurant in Ocala orders 180 pounds of beef a week from this local provider. This burger was ordered from the menu on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. [Photo by Jennifer Hunt Murty]

Making a splash on stage

“The SpongeBob Musical” will run at The Civic in Ocala through May 18.

By Jamie Berube

When Cody Novotny was selected to play Squidward Tentacles at The Civic, his biggest hurdle was not memorizing lines. It was learning how to tap dance.

“During callbacks when I was in consideration for the role, at the tap call I was atrocious. I’ve never tapped before. And when I got the role, I knew I had a Herculean effort in front of me Novotny said.

Novotny tackled the task with three hours of daily practice in order to master a tap dance number in his role on stage. He is now obsessed with tap as a dance form.

“Tap is now easily one of my biggest obsessions, and I’m so excited to see where I go with it,” Novotny said. “I feel sorry for my neighbors when they inevitably hear the rhythm of toes and heels regularly throughout the day.”

From May 1 to 18, Novotny will make his tap dance debut as the octopus neighbor of SpongeBob SquarePants in “The SpongeBob Musical” at The Civic, concluding the theater’s 74th season.

Novotny is a professional actor in theatre, theme parks and

resorts throughout Florida and is elated to be returning to the Ocala Civic Theatre, or The Civic, stage.

Based on the animated television series created by Stephen Hillenburg for Nickelodeon, the musical is a splashy adaptation of the series whose main character, SpongeBob SquarePants, is an anthropomorphic sponge who lives in a pineapple under the sea.

The musical follows SpongeBob, played by Christian Gonzales, as he attempts to thwart the eruption of an underground volcano.

Gonzales is returning to the OCT stage, where he most recently played Tully in “Escape to Margaritaville,” with other roles including Actor 1 in “Baskerville,” Cuddy Banks in “Witch,” Tobias Ragg in “Sweeney Todd,” Jack Kelly in “Newsies” and more.

According to Gonzales, he aims to exude optimism in the show in order to capture SpongeBob’s true nature. When Gonzales takes the stage in the first act the optimism is palpable.

“SpongeBob as a character is gleaming with joy and excitement for life and his friends around him, so, for myself, I try to truly see every situation in the show

as a ‘glass half-full’ moment,” Gonzales said.

Gonzales connects with SpongeBob’s journey of finding his place and earning appreciation, a theme he believes will resonate with audiences, especially adults. He highlights SpongeBob’s struggle to discover his natural talents and gain recognition, mirroring universal desires for belonging and validation.

“SpongeBob’s main overarching theme of not knowing exactly what his ‘thing’ is and figuring out what he does well naturally and ultimately getting recognized should particularly resonate with adults in the audience,” Gonzales said.

Playing a square yellow sponge could have presented a potential challenge for costume designer Amanda Jones, but, according to Gonzales, Jones did a great job putting together SpongeBob’s signature outfit.

“Amanda did a great job picking out the clothes and the biggest thing were the jazz boots they got for me to rehearse in quickly,” Gonzales said.

“I’ve never been much of a dancer so getting used to the slickness of them has been really helpful while also making me feel more comfortable trying

some more daring stuff since SpongeBob is a pretty limber character,” he continued.

“SpongeBob is one of those characters that’s helped me learn to trust my body more and more to do intense movement. I have a history of ankle issues that kind of lingers on the back of my mind, but this show is helping me look past it and feel stronger on my legs than I’ve been in a very long time,” he added.

The musical takes place in an undersea fictional city called Bikini Bottom, where SpongeBob SquarePants and his friends face a crisis: the looming eruption of Mount Humongous. The town’s eclectic denizens, including the conniving duo Plankton and Karen, hatch a sneaky plot to flee via a dastardly escape pod with nefarious motives. Reactions to the impending doom whirl wildly: some frantically finger-point while others cling to a peculiar prophet and a few schemers scramble to cash in on the pandemonium.

Undaunted, the ever-spunky SpongeBob rallies his trusty sidekicks, Patrick and Sandy, to thwart the volcano’s fiery fury with a bold plan. Amid uproarious antics, heartfelt epiphanies and spirited spats, the trio charges toward the disaster

with gutsy resolve, proving Bikini Bottom’s heart beats strongest in the face of catastrophe.

According to director Eb Madson, you do not have to be a kid to connect with the show.

“At its core, this musical is about the strength of community and the power of positivity. We’re emphasizing themes of friendship, resilience and inclusivity. Whether you’re 6 or 60, there’s something here to connect with, especially the idea that everyone has a voice and can make a difference,” Madson offered.

Madson was drawn to the SpongeBob Musical because of its heart, humor and boundless creativity.

“It’s a show that radiates joy and celebrates the power of optimism, which feels especially meaningful right now,” Madson said. “For the Ocala community, it’s the perfect fit–a fun, highenergy experience for families, with a surprisingly profound message about coming together in times of crisis.”

With a large cast of characters to coach and direct, Madson is embracing a playful, imaginative approach to the musical.

“The set and costumes are full of bold colors and inventive

Christian Gonzales as SpongeBob SquarePants, center, leaps in the air with other cast members during a dress rehearsal of “The SpongeBob Musical” at The Civic on East Silver Springs Boulevard in Ocala, Fla. on Monday, April 28, 2025. The play, set on Bikini Bottom, runs from May 1-18, 2025.

Christian Gonzales as SpongeBob SquarePants, right, rehearses a scene with Cody Novotny as Squidward Q. Tentacles, center, and Isiah Blount as Patrick Star, left, during a dress rehearsal.

Antony Smith as Eugene Krabs, left, rehearses a scene with Caylinn Mosblech as Pearl Krabs.

The SpongeBob Musical

materials, sparking the audience’s imagination. Choreography is a key part of bringing this world to life, using dynamic, stylized movement to create that underwater energy,” Madson said.

Isiah Blount is new to the OCT stage in the role of SpongeBob’s best friend, Patrick Star, a dim-witted, lovable pink starfish. His hope for young audiences who watch the show is that they grow to love Patrick for his heart.

“I want them to see that even if you go through life feeling unheard or overlooked, you still have something valuable to contribute, something that could help save the day. I also hope they understand, through Patrick, that it’s okay to have disagreements with friends, as long as love is still at the core,” he said.

According to Blount, playing Patrick also taught him that it’s okay to not understand everything and, more importantly, it’s okay to say that you don’t understand.

“So often, we stay silent out of fear of looking unintelligent or being embarrassed. But Patrick isn’t afraid to say when he’s confused and, oddly enough, that was really refreshing to play. It reminded me that there’s strength in vulnerability and in owning where you are in the moment,” Blount said.

Blount masters the role with magnetic, magical energy. His only real challenge came with how to style his hair.

“I knew that if I tried styling my natural hair for every show, it wouldn’t hold up through all the sweat and heat from the lights, and I’d probably be left with a lot of breakage by the end of the run. So, we went with a pink afro-textured wig instead. Styling it was definitely a process, but it all came together in the end and really added something fun and unique to the look,” he explained.

Playing Patrick was not hard for Blount. He credits having a lot in common with the character for the overall ease of the process.

“We’re both pretty goofy and laid-back by nature, so stepping into Patrick’s shoes didn’t feel like a huge stretch. At first, I was fully prepared to study his voice and completely dive into who he is in the cartoon. But that wasn’t exactly

what the creators of the stage show were looking for. Instead, I had to find Patrick within myself, to capture his essence rather than mimic him,” Blount shared.

For Madson, casting this show was all about finding performers with strong comedic timing, vocal range and heart.

“Patrick had to be lovable and sincere with a knack for quirky humor. We are fortunate to have an incredibly talented cast that brings both the characters and their humanity to life,” he said.

The remaining 20 characters include Benjamin Burnette, security guard and citizen of Bikini Bottom. Burnette previously appeared in the ensemble of “Cinderella” and was Capt. Tony Jaffe in “Escape to Margaritaville.”

Cristian A. Cardoso made his OCT debut as Eli in “The Spitfire Grill” last season and is returning in the role of Larry the Lobster and as a featured dancer and member of the Electric Skates band. The Electric Skates are a fictional, famous rock band in Bikini Bottom. They are a trio of fish known for performing on skateboards and roller skates while playing guitars, adding a highenergy, rebellious vibe to the show.

Crystal Catalina is making her OCT debut as a citizen of Bikini Bottom and as a featured dancer.

Courtney Curtis previously played Charlotte in “Cinderella” and Tammy in “Escape to Margaritaville” and is excited to be returning to play Karen the Computer.

Alexa Hall, the sound intern at OCT, is playing a stage role as the Foley Artist Fish, responsible for creating all live sound effects during the show. The mayor of Bikini Bottom is played by returning actress Adrienne Hebert, who previously appeared in the ensemble of “Cinderella” and played Rachel in “Escape to Margaritaville” with other superior stage credits to her name. New to the OCT stage, Geovanni Jimenez plays Patchy the Pirate and is a member of the Electric Skates band. Janea King plays several roles as a sardine, citizen of bikini bottom, featured

dancer and a dance captain. King has previously appeared on the OCT stage in the ensemble of “Cinderella,” as Wanda in “Escape to Margaritaville” and as Tommy Boy in “Newsies.”

Hunter Leary plays Perch Perkins, and his OCT stage credits extend to appearances in the ensemble of “Cinderella” and “Sweeney Todd.” Adrianah Lee appeared in the ensemble of “Cinderella” and “Escape to Margaritaville” and she is returning as a security guard, citizen of Bikini Bottom and as a featured dancer.

Pearl Krabs is played by Caylinn Mosblech, who previously played the beggar woman in “Sweeney Todd” and appeared in the ensembles of “Escape to Margaritaville,” “The Addams Family, Mamma Mia!” and “Sister Act.” Tara Oathout graces the stage as a citizen of Bikini Bottom and sardine. Oathout is thrilled to return to the stage after a nearly 20-year hiatus.

Gary the Snail is played by Walter Paul Oathout, who is making his mainstage debut. New to OCT, Xavier Rosado plays Sheldon J. Plankton. Also making an OCT debut is Saber Ramos, who plays a citizen of Bikini Bottom. Daniel Roscoe previously played Caleb in “The Spitfire Grill” and the Beadle in “Sweeney Todd” and is returning to the stage as a citizen of Bikini Bottom.

Old Man Jenkins is played by Josiah Santiago, who is returning to OCT after recent stage credits including “In the Heights” at the Gainesville Community Playhouse. Santiago also plays a sardine and is a member of the Electric Skates.

Shining in his debut, Antony Smith rocks the role of Eugene Krabs. La’Nya Solomon made her OCT debut this season as the title role in “Cinderella” and shines on stage as Sandy Cheeks. Finally,

Alexis Trimboli plays Mrs. Puff and has previously appeared in the ensemble of “Sweeney Todd.”

Melody Murphy, director of marketing and public relations for The Civic, highlights the imaginative vision of Tina Landau, conceiver of “SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical,” who provided explicit guidance in the script for staging and designing the production.

“Tina Landau, who conceived the musical production, includes detailed notes in the script about how to stage and design The SpongeBob Musical, such as ‘Create a universe from scratch. Be creative. Be wacky. Keep the aesthetic DIY. This is a world made of found and discarded objects that have floated to the ocean floor,’” Murphy said.

These instructions encourage a whimsical, inventive approach, crafting a vibrant underwater world from repurposed materials.

“So, keep your eye out for some very clever uses of pool noodles. Audiences will have fun taking a closer look at the objects that make up the set,” she continued.

For skeptics of a musical about a talking, singing sponge and his friends, the themes are anything but cartoony.

According to Madson, at its core, this musical is about the strength of community and the power of positivity.

“We’re emphasizing themes of friendship, resilience and inclusivity,” Madson said.

There are 12 whimsical scenes throughout the two-hour-long musical, with one intermission.

According to Madson, with many scenes, costume changes and transitions, there are challenges.

“One challenge is balancing the fast-paced action and technical demands with clear storytelling and emotional depth. We’ve tackled this by staying

grounded in the characters’ motivations, even amidst the chaos. Another challenge is the stamina required. This cast is giving 110%, and we’ve focused on pacing and care to keep the energy high while supporting the performers,” he said.

These efforts shine when the cast unites to bring this vibrant underwater adventure to life.

“The SpongeBob Musical” serves as the perfect capstone for the 2024-2025 season, with its universal themes and stellar performances. t.

Murphy emphasizes the broad appeal of the musical, encouraging all to attend.

“If you’re looking for something you can enjoy with your whole family, your friends, on a date, taking the kids to their first show, bringing your mom for Mother’s Day, whatever the company and occasion, ‘The SpongeBob Musical’ is perfect. The show’s message of friendship and community is universal. And it’s performed by an incredibly talented cast,” she said.

According to Blount, he is already excited to audition again next season.

“The energy, color and pure pizazz this show brings feels like the perfect way to wrap up a season. It ends things on such a joyful, high-energy note and, honestly, it feels more like a launchpad than a finale. “I can’t wait to see what’s coming next season, and I’m already excited to audition again,” he said.

The Civic is located at 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Tickets for “The SpongeBob Musical” are $35 for adults and $17 for ages 18 and younger. This show is rated G.

To get tickets, visit the box oﬃce between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Friday or purchase online at ocalacivictheatre.com

Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

La’Nya Solomon stars as Sandy Cheeks in “The SpongeBob Musical” at The Civic.

Christian Gonzales as SpongeBob SquarePants, center, dances with Isiah Blount as Patrick Star, left, and La’Nya Solomon as Sandy Cheeks, right, and other cast members during a dress rehearsal.

Home & Garden

Prices remain steady for single-family homes

Ocala/Marion County’s median sale price in March was $290,000.

Staﬀ report

The Florida Realtors’ Association March 2025 market report shows that statewide the median single-family home sale price rose to $412,500, a decline of 1.9% compared to March of 2024. Townhouses and condo median sales price were $315,000, a 4.5% year-over-year decrease from last March. The statewide active listing inventory for single-family homes was 114,454, an increase of 32.7% from last year.

SINGLEFAMILY MARKET

Ocala/Marion County’s March median sale price reported for single-family homes was $290,000, which is no change from 2024.

“Closed sales of Florida single-family homes were down year-over-year for the second consecutive month in March, but only by 1.3%,” said Brad O’Connor, senior economist for the Florida Realtors’, a statewide reporting and professional trade association. “That’s a big improvement over February’s more than 7% decline. What’s more, the number of singlefamily homes that went under contract in March was actually up year-over-year by over a half of a percent. One reason for this is likely that we had the average 30-year ﬁxed mortgage rate hovering at around 6.75% for most of March, in stark contrast to January and February when it was largely north of 7%. That bodes well for closed sales in April, but this boost is going to be short-lived, as mortgage rates have since returned to those 7% levels.”

More inventory also aﬀects the market, O’Connor said.

“We’ll want to keep an eye on both inventory and time on market over the next few months, as the higher they rise, the more downward pressure we’ll see on home prices,” he stated.

The association reported that the supply of single-family existing homes statewide increased to a 5.5 months’ supply.

“Months’ supply inventory is a useful indicator of market conditions,” the report stated. “The benchmark for a balanced market (favoring neither buyer nor seller) is 5.5 months of inventory.

Anything higher is traditionally a buyers’ market and anything lower is a sellers’ market.”

Statewide, the number of cash sales for single-family homes decreased by 2.0%, with a total of 6,746 throughout

Florida, which was just under 29% of all sales.

“Cash sales can be a useful indicator of the extent to which investors are participating in the market. Investors are far more likely to have the funds to purchase a home available up front, whereas the typical homebuyer requires a mortgage or some other form of ﬁnancing,” the report stated.

Ocala/Marion County saw an increase in single-family home closings from last year, 815 total, a 5.2% increase.

TOWNHOUSES AND CONDOS

The Ocala/Marion County townhouse and condo median sales price came in at $189,000, an 8.9% increase from last March. A total of 61 closed sales were reported.

“Demand remains relatively weaker in the condo and

townhouse property type category,” O’Connor said. “Closed sales in this category were down nearly 10% compared to a year ago in March. New pending sales were down as well, by almost 11%.”

“For the past year, Florida condos and townhouses have been taking longer to sell than singlefamily homes. The median time on market for them selling in March was 62 days, up from 43 days one year ago. In this case, the median time on market is a bit higher than it was in the latter half of the 2010s,” O’Connor added.

Existing condo-townhouse properties were at a 10.1 month’s supply in March, an increase of 53% from March of 2024, with total active listings of 77,300. For the sector, the number of cash sales decreased by 9.5% and represented 54% of the market.

Eight games to try at your next backyard bash

Games can enhance any outdoor function. Whether in one’s backyard or at the beach or a lake, activities can keep guests entertained in between the food and other refreshments.

And the good news is that most games designed for these types of functions are appropriate for players across a wide range of ages. Here are eight games that can add to the excitement of any outdoor gathering.

1Ladder toss: Also known as ladder golf, this game requires players to toss string-attached balls onto a laddershaped target. Points are awarded depending on which rung the ball lands on.

2Kubb: Pronounced “koob,” this Swedish lawn game is believed to have originated during the era of the Vikings and is best described as a blend of bowling and horseshoes. Two teams compete to knock over their opponents’ wooden blocks by throwing batons.

3Cornhole: Many people have played cornhole, which involves tossing bean bags at the cornhole board, The objective is to get the bag into the hole or on the board to score points. The game can be played as singles or doubles. The ﬁrst team to reach 21 points wins.

4Spikeball: Also called Roundnet, this two-on-two sport is played by hitting a ball oﬀ a net with the goal of preventing the opposing team from returning the ball within three touches.

5Ring toss: This is another game that tests hand-eye coordination. Players take turns tossing the rings onto the target pegs. Each peg is worth a diﬀerent number of points. The ﬁrst player to reach the agreed-upon number of points wins.

6Connect four in a row: Giant versions of familiar tabletop games also are available for yard use. With this game, players need to get four chips in a row, either up and down or diagonal.

7Kan Jam: Similar to cornhole or horseshoes, Kan Jam features two teams of two people who alternate between throwing a frisbee and trying to deﬂect it. The goal is to get the frisbee into the can.

8Rollers: Goals are placed 25 feet apart and then players roll wooden discs to try to get closest to the goal. Each side of the disc has a diﬀerent number to determine the point value. Many backyard events can be enhanced with some game play and there are plenty of fun options for your next gathering.

This new 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Dunnellon recently sold for $284,500.

Visit These New Home Models

CALESA TOWNSHIP

855-927-4104

Larkspur – Inventory Home Available Now!

5714 SW 75th Avenue Ocala, FL 34474

3,089 a/c sq. ft. single family home priced at $498,730.

Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, gourmet kitchen, dining room, flex room, nest, laundry suite, and screened covered lanai.

Begonia - Inventory Home Available Now!

7731 SW 58th Place, Ocala, FL 34474

2,202 a/c sq. ft. single family home priced at $427,885.

Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, breakfast area, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Garnet Model – 6416 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474

1,921 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $355,990.

Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, breakfast area, laundry suite, and patio.

Sable Model – 6428 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474

2,420 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $372,990.

Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage, great room, living room, game room, breakfast area, laundry suite, and patio.

Gardenia Model – 6440 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474

2,671 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $429,990.

Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, nest, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Larkspur Model – 6464 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474

3,089 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $449,990.

Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, flex room, nest, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Marigold Model – 6476 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474

3,374 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $465,990.

Featuring 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, nest, loft, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Heath Preserve

Abby Model - 4795 NW 11th St, Ocala, FL • 352-415-3851

1,263 a/c sq. Ft., move in ready, one-story single-family home starting at $254.440, featuring 3 beds, 2 baths, and 2 car garage.

Marion Ranch

Truman Model - 4847 SW 81ST Loop, Ocala, FL. • 352-261-0096

1,782 a/c sq. ft., two-story low maintenance townhome starting at $228,440 featuring 3 beds, 2.5 baths, and 1 car garage. Move in ready.

Eclipse Model - 4648 SW 84th Street Rd, Ocala, FL • 352-415-3851

2,449 a/c sq. Ft., move in ready, spacious two-story single-family home starting at $306,440, featuring 5 beds, 3 baths, and 2 car garage.

Lincoln Model - 4827 SW 81st Loop. , Ocala, FL. 352-261-0096

1,707 a/c sq. ft. single-family open concept townhome with screened in lanai starting at $217,440 featuring 3 beds, 2.5 baths and 1 car garage.

Millwood

Chloe Model - 4034 NE 30th Terr, Ocala, FL • 352-415-3851

2,260 a/c sq. Ft., move in ready, two-story single-family home w/ downstairs owner’s suite starting at $385,485, featuring 4 beds, 3.5 baths, and 2 car garage.

Belmont Model - 3106 NE 36th Place, Ocala, FL • 352-415-3851

1,428 a/c sq. Ft., move in ready, low-maintenance one-story single-family home starting at $238,440, featuring 3 beds, 2 baths, and 2 car garage.

Oak Hammock Townhomes

Lincoln Model - 3553 SE 37th Ct. , Ocala, FL. 352-562-7154

1, 707 a/c sq. ft. single-family open concept townhome with screened in lanai starting at $229,485 featuring 3 beds, 2.5 baths and 1 car garage.

Pioneer Ranch

Halle II Model - 6645 SW 89th Lane, Ocala, FL. • 352-505-9032

1,703 a/c sq. ft., single-story residence starting at $284,680 featuring 3 beds, 2 bath and 2 car garage. Move in ready.

Princeton II Model - 6896 Sw 88th Place, Ocala, FL • 352-415-3851

2,226 a/c sq. Ft., move in ready, single-family home w/screened porch starting at $383,480, featuring 4 beds, 3 baths, and 3 car garage.

Marion Ranch

Bloomfield Model - 8316 SW 46th Ave, Ocala, FL 34476 • 352-677-2262

2,503 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $395,990 featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3-car garage, quartz countertops, versatile flex room, and covered lanai.

Medina Model - 8322 SW 46th Ave, Ocala, FL 34476 • 352-677-2262

2,230 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $347,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2-car garage, quartz countertops, versatile flex room, and covered lanai.

Pioneer Ranch

Astoria Model - 6866 SW 90th Loop, Ocala, FL 34476 • 813-547-5335

2,223 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $369,990 featuring 3-4 bedrooms, 2.5-3 bathrooms, 3-car garage, quartz countertops, versatile flex room, and covered lanai.

Heston Model - 6862 SW 90th Loop, Ocala, FL 34476 • 813-547-5335

1,850 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $314,990 featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2-car garage, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and covered lanai.

Daylen Model - 6858 SW 90th Loop, Ocala, FL 34476 • 813-547-5335

1,580 a/c

Beaumont Model - 10458

Ocala, FL 34481

featuring

Magnolia Model - 10446 SW 96th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481

2,493 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $418,490 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage with golf cart space, great room, breakfast area, flex room, den, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Arlington Model - 9584 SW 82nd Street Road, Ocala, FL 34481

Aberdeen Model - 9564 SW 82nd Street Road, Ocala, FL 34481 2,907 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $501,490 featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, great room, 2nd master suite, breakfast area, flex room, laundry suite, and a covered lanai.

Stone Creek

Stellar Model - 9312 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481

2,483 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $421,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 3-4 bathrooms, 2-car garage, versatile flex room, stainless steel appliances, and covered lanai.

Stardom Model - 9296 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481

2,269 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $406,990 featuring 2-3 bedrooms, 2.5-3.5 bathrooms, 2-3-car garage, quartz countertops, versatile flex room, and oversized covered lanai. Prestige Model - 9294 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481 2,080 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $360,990 featuring 2-3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2-car garage, Owner’s walk-in closet, quartz countertops, and covered lanai.

Mainstay Model - 9290 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481

1,948 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $354,990 featuring 2-3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2-car garage, luxury vinyl plank flooring, stainless steel appliances, and extended covered lanai.

Compass Model - 9291 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481

1,471

PULTE HOMES

Reddick

McIntosh

Dunnellon

Ocala

Belleview

LENNAR

Made in the shade

Deciduous trees can add beauty to your landscape and help reduce cooling costs.

Staﬀ report

If not for shade trees, there wouldn’t be any summer backyard barbecues, relaxing in a hammock with a good book or enjoying a cold glass of lemonade under a cool, leafy canopy.

On a hot summer day, there can be at least a 10-degree diﬀerence from sun to shade and shade trees can also reduce home cooling costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, trees can shade the ground and pavement around a home, reducing heat radiation and cooling the air before it reaches your home’s walls and

windows. A single shade tree can save a homeowner up to 20 percent on energy costs.

Additionally, shade trees improve air quality, reduce storm runoﬀ, contribute to a smaller carbon footprint and beautify neighborhoods.

WHAT TO PLANT

The best shade trees are deciduous trees, which shed all or most of their leaves each year and include oaks, birches, elms and sweetgums. In Ocala/Marion County, the iconic live oak is the most recognizable deciduous tree.

MAYO

Live oaks need lots of room, so they are best suited for large lots. They can grow to 60 feet tall and 60 feet wide and their extensive root system can create issues with power lines, drain ﬁelds, driveways, foundations and sidewalks. Also recommended for large lots are shumard oaks and nuttal oaks.

A swamp chestnut oak is a good alternative for an average residential lot. Over time, they may grow up to 70 feet tall but will have a canopy spread of only 40 feet. They have a lifespan of 130 to 150 years.

For smaller lots, medium-sized trees like the dahoon holly or overcup oak might be good options.

The Bob Wines Camellia Gardens and Nursery in southeast Ocala is currently advertising lots of trees for sale, such as 4- to 6-foot live oaks for about $50 to $60, 10- to 12-foot-tall dahoon hollies for about $499, 13- to 18-foot live oaks for $599$699 and 14- to 19-foot-tall hollies for about $999.

WHEN, WHERE AND HOW TO PLANT

Trees can be planted any time, but spring is preferable because they are coming out of dormancy and you have better control of the watering schedule. By the time summer temperatures arrive in late May, trees should be on their way to being established.

Choose the location for planting a tree carefully. Keep in mind how big the mature tree will be and plant it away from drain ﬁelds, sidewalks, driveways, foundations and roofs. You may even want to call your utility company before planting to avoid overhead and underground power lines.” And watch for proper depth of planting. The University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension Marion County recommends planting trees in a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and slightly shallower, about an inch above the surrounding soil. And loosen up the root ball as the roots of trees raised in round pots tend to circle. Roots need oxygen to thrive, and 70 percent of all roots are in the top 18 to 24 inches of soil.

WATERING AND BEYOND

When planting a tree, form a shallow moat about 3 feet out from the trunk in all directions, about 8 inches deep. Use a garden hose to ﬁll the moat with water. Reﬁll every day for two weeks.

At the beginning of the third week, water every other day for the next three weeks, then two times a week three and four days apart for an additional six weeks, then once a week until the tree is established.

After the summer rains end, water a new tree once a week during the dry months and while it is entering dormancy.

UF/IFAS recommends that all young oaks be pruned routinely for the ﬁrst 15 to 20 years. This will develop a healthy branch structure and maintain one dominant trunk for strength and stability.

To learn more, go to sfyl.ifas.uﬂ.edu

‘Tech neck’: Technology’s effect on your neck

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I

spend my workday looking at a computer screen and then use my phone to browse social media and text with friends in the evening. The combined time on these devices is giving me neck pain and stiﬀness. Are there ways to prevent or reduce the nagging neck pain?

ANSWER: On average, people spend three hours and 15 minutes on their phones daily, checking them an average of 58 times each day. Almost half of Americans say they spend an average of four to ﬁve hours on their smartphones daily.

Some people spend eight or more hours using a computer during the workday. After work, you may spend another two to four hours on a home computer or your phone. The combined time spent using a screened device is highly fatiguing for your neck and body.

Bending your head forward at a 45-degree angle to look at a cellphone or tablet can dramatically increase

your chances of having a “tech neck.”

You can use an analogy with a gallon of milk to help understand the pressure of supporting your head on the neck, shoulders and back. The average adult’s head weighs approximately 10-12 pounds, while a gallon of milk weighs roughly 8 pounds. You can likely hold a gallon of milk next to your body for an extended length of time. But if you extend your arm to hold the gallon of milk out to your side, you’re creating 72 pounds of pressure at your elbow and 96 pounds at your shoulder. Holding the gallon of milk outstretched for an extended period would be more diﬃcult due to the pressure from the weight.

Your neck and upper back muscles feel the same pressure from the weight of your head when spending extended time looking down at electronic devices. As a result, “tech neck” is becoming a more common issue for people in businesses, schools and industry.

Tech neck is any form of chronic neck or shoulder pain, soreness or stiﬀness caused by poor posture while using technology, such as phones or computers.

Looking down at electronic devices causes the neck muscles to strain and the shoulders to slump forward. Musculoskeletal fatigue and pressure on the nerve supply in the neck can cause pain in the neck, which also can cause referred pain in the arms and hands. Over time, staying in this position can increase the force and eﬀort on your shoulders, neck and upper back muscles and put uneven pressure on your spine.

Your posture also can contribute to these issues. While using a cellphone, you’re likely to bring it closer to your body to maintain visual comfort and see the screen more clearly. People looking at their phones often stay in a static or same position for extremely long periods of time. This actually requires more

work and eﬀort from your body than dynamic movement.

Tech neck also can cause issues beyond your neck and shoulders. Extra spinal pressure in your neck can lead to mid and lower-back pain as well as headaches.

You can decrease the pressure caused by tech neck by placing pillows on your lap to support your forearms. Try to hold the phone in a more upright, angled position to improve visual comfort.

There are also ways to improve your computer posture:

Place your screen 20-30 inches away from your eyes, which is about an arm’s length.

Use a computer monitor or laptop stand to help raise your screen to the right level. Your eye height should be about 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches higher than the top characters on your screen to allow for a 15-degree eye gaze.

Sit with your head, hips and spine stacked.

Keep your wrists straight and your elbows bent at about 90-degree angles.

Keep your knees aligned with your hips and your feet ﬂat on the ﬂoor.

When you are looking straight ahead, your neck, back and upper shoulder muscles get a chance to relax. This prevents uneven pressure on the nerve supply of these muscle groups.

The goal is to stay in a neutral, supported, upright posture while using screened devices. Focus on keeping your head upright with your ears over your shoulders and your shoulders over your hips.

Also, look for ways to build movement into your day after being in a static position like sitting. Remember, your next posture is your best posture. — Brian Langenhorst, Ergonomics Specialist, Occupational Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, La Crosse, Wisconsin

FREE FIRST SATURDAY

Double Feature

Saturday, May 3

Admission to the Appleton is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. At 11 a.m. in the auditorium, join us for a double-feature screening of two notab le films in the Godzilla franchise: “Godzilla” (1954) and “The Return of Godzilla” (1984). Films will be shown back-to-back with a 15-minute intermission between, following a brief introduction by Appleton staff. Food trucks will be on-site thro ughout the day, along with LifeSouth Community Blood Centers.

Free First Saturday is

Dahoon holly. [Photo courtesy UF/IFAS]

Live oak. [Photo courtesy UF/IFAS]

CLINIC

March

LIBRA

September 23October 23

A fresh burst of energy could be coming your way, Libra. This may provide the boost you need for self-improvement. You may be inspired to make many changes in your life right now.

SCORPIO

TAURUS

April

Taurus,

GEMINI

May

CANCER

June

LEO

October 24-

November 22

Scorpio, you may find yourself reflecting on your mental and emotional well-being this week. Some introspection could lead to a breakthrough that helps you understand the past.

SAGITTARIUS

November 23

-December 21

Expect your social life to pick up speed this week, Sagittarius. Invitations and opportunities to connect abound. Pay attention to your network as it may lead to connections.

CAPRICORN

December 22-

January 20

Your hard work is paying off, Capricorn, but you also need to tend to your personal needs right now. This is the week to find better balance and take care of your health.

VIRGO

Exercise

AQUARIUS

January 21-February 18

Aquarius, you may be feeling more curious about the world around you and could find this is the week for some unexpected travel. It’s a great time to embrace new ideas.

PISCES

February 19-March 20

Your intuition will guide you this week, especially when it comes to romance and other matters of the heart, Pisces. Expect relationships to grow for the better.

Some outdoor plants can be toxic to household pets

Pets bring many positive changes to households. They can make homes more lively and the companionship of animals can reduce feelings of loneliness while oﬀering additional health beneﬁts to pet owners. Individuals who are preparing to adopt or purchase pets need to be mindful that they may need to make changes at home to ensure residences are safe places for pets to reside. Much in the way new parents must assess the environs for potential hazards to babies, pet owners should conduct similar inspections. These safety checks should occur both inside and in the yard if pets will be spending time outdoors. Poisonous plants are a potentially hidden hazard prospective pet owners must address before bringing a new pet home.

People generally do not give much thought to the plants they include in their homes and yards beyond the care instructions and how they can add to the aesthetic appeal. Homeowners may know if a plant likes the sun or shade, but they may not realize its potential for toxicity. That’s because adults in particular are not prone to ingesting the plants in their yard that are inedible, unlike curious pets that may sniﬀ and nibble plants when exploring their environments. For those with dogs and cats that will spend time outdoors, it’s best to be aware of these potentially toxic plants, courtesy of the ASPCA, Dr. Buzby’s and Garden Design.

• Autumn crocus: There are various types of crocus plants, but the one most toxic to dogs is autumn crocus. The entire plant is toxic, but the highest concentration of toxic agent is found in the bulbs.

• Sago palm: People in warm climates may enjoy the look of palm trees on their properties. Despite its tropical and relaxing appearance, the sago palm is extremely poisonous if ingested by pets, with the seeds being the most toxic part.

• Lily: Lilies are highly toxic to cats in particular. Even grooming pollen oﬀ of their fur or drinking water out of a vase where lilies are kept may cause kidney failure.

• Tulips and hyacinth: These early bloomers are beautiful ﬂowers, but each contains a similar alkaloid toxin that is mild to moderately toxic to pets. The highest concentration is found in the bulbs, which dogs or cats may dig up while exploring.

• Aloe vera: This soothing succulent may be part of an arid climate landscape. Aloe contains saponin, a toxin with foaming properties that can harm pets if ingested and cause severe dehydration.

• Begonia: A popular outdoor and indoor plant, begonia has decorative ﬂowers and attractive leaves. It can be toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, particularly the underground tubers.

• Azalea: This ﬂowering shrub produces ﬂowers in many colors, so it’s often present in household landscapes. It’s important to note that azaleas can be toxic to dogs and cats.

• Yew: American, Canadian and Japanese yew may be found around properties. These shrubs produce small red berries with green centers (almost looking like the reverse of a Spanish olive with pimento). Yew is toxic to cats and dogs.

• Dahlia: Dahlia produce flowers in different colors, so they are common in flower beds. However, these plants also are mildly toxic to pets.

Many toxic plants can irritate the gastrointestinal system in pets, potentially resulting in vomiting, diarrhea or lethargy. Those who suspect a pet has ingested a poisonous plant should contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 4264435 or their local veterinarian to learn about how to respond to possible exposure.

Azaleas, which can be toxic to dogs and cats, are very common in Marion County.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2025-CP-1073

IN RE: ESTATE OF JOSEPHINE MAZULA MACINO

Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of JOSEPHINE MAZULA MACINO, deceased, whose date of death was February 23, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for MARION County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, #1, Ocala, Florida 34471. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is May 2, 2025. Personal Representative: TRACI MAZULA-BOND

Attorney for Personal Representative: SHANTA MATTHEWS, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 69935 814 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Suite D OCALA, FL 34470

Telephone: (352) 421-8722

Fax: (352) 306-3759

E-Mail: shanta@smatthewslaw.com

Secondary: lori@smatthewslaw.com

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2025-CP-1041 IN RE: ESTATE OF SHEILA VERONICA DUNPHY Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of SHEILA VERONICA DUNPHY, deceased, whose date of death was March 3, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for MARION County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, #1, Ocala, Florida 34471. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERI-

ODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is April 25, 2025.

Personal Representative: JAIME A. MCLAUGHLIN Attorney for Personal Representative: SHANTA MATTHEWS, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 69935 814 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Suite D OCALA, FL 34470 Telephone: (352) 421-8722 Fax: (352) 306-3759 E-Mail: shanta@smatthewslaw.com Secondary: lori@smatthewslaw.com

NOTICE UNDER FICTITIOUS NAME

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Notice is hereby given that the under signed pursuant to the "Fictitious Name Statute, Chapter 865.09, Florida Statutes, will register with the Division of Corporations, Department of State, State of Florida upon receipt of this notice. The fictitious name, to-wit: AdventHealth Medical Group High Risk Pregnancy at Ocala under which (we are) engaged in business at 1219 S Pine Avenue, Suite 102 in Ocala, FL 34471-6541. That the (party) (parties) interested in said business enterprise is as follows: Florida Hospital Physician Group, Inc. at Ocala, Marion County, Florida, on 4/29/2025, Marion County, Ocala, FL.

Feeling Barcelona’s creative pulse

If you’re in the mood to surrender to a city’s charms, let it be in Barcelona. Life bubbles in its narrow old town alleys, grand boulevards, and elegant modern district. While Barcelona has an illustrious past –from Roman colony to 14th-century maritime powerit’s enjoyable to throw out the history books and just drift through the city.

A stroll down Barcelona’s main pedestrian drag, the Ramblas, is a good place to start. This grand boulevard takes you from rich (the elegant main square, Plaça de Catalunya) to rough (the port) in a one-mile walk past plenty of historic pieces of this great city.

The Ramblas, which means “stream” in Arabic, is an endless current of people and action. For generations, this boulevard was beloved by locals and tourists alike for its parade of local charm and thriving market. But be warned that with the advent of short-term rentals, locals have been driven out of the neighborhood by higher rents as landlords choose to make more money housing tourists. And with that exodus, so goes the local charm. Today the Ramblas is a tourist trap made even more disappointing by the overabundance of pickpockets also targeting the tourists. It’s still

worth a look, but if you have fond memories from a previous visit, you leave thinking: Ramblas…R.I.P. East of the Ramblas is Barcelona’s Gothic quarter, the Barri Gòtic, which surrounds the colossal Barcelona Cathedral. The narrow streets that weave around the cathedral are a tangled but inviting grab bag of undiscovered Art Nouveau storefronts, neighborhood ﬂea markets, musty junk shops, classy antique shops, and musicians strumming the folk songs of Catalunya (the independent-minded region of northeast Spain, of which Barcelona is the capital). Look up at the wrought-iron balconies, whose bars barely contain their domestic jungles.

A creative spirit is part of the ebb and ﬂow of daily life in Barcelona. Modern artist Joan Miró lived in the Barri Gòtic. And so did a teenage Pablo Picasso. It was in Barcelona, in the 1890s, that Picasso grabbed hold of the artistic vision that rocketed him to Paris and fame. The Picasso Museum, in the La Ribera district, oﬀers the best collection of the artist’s work in Spain. Seeing Picasso’s youthful, realistic art, you can better appreciate the genius of his later, more abstract art.

For a refreshing break from the dense old city, head north to the more modern Eixample

neighborhood, with its wide sidewalks, graceful shade trees, chic shops, and Art Nouveau frills.

Barcelona was busting out of its medieval walls by the 1850s, and so a new town – called the Eixample (“expansion”) – was laid out in a grid pattern.

The district’s original vision was egalitarian. But over time, the Eixample became a showcase for wealthy residents and their Catalan architects, who turned the ﬂourishing Art Nouveau style into Modernisme, their own brand of decorative design. Buildings bloom with characteristic colorful, leafy, and ﬂowing shapes in doorways, entrances, facades, and ceilings.

Barcelona’s most famous Modernista artist, Antoni Gaudí, created architectural fantasies that are a quirky quilt of galloping gables and organic curves. A quintessential example of Modernisme, La Pedrera (a.k.a. Casa Milà) has walls of wavy stone and a fanciful, undulating rooftop, where 30 chimneys play volleyball with the clouds. At Casa Batlló, a green-blue ceramic-speckled facade, tibia-esque pillars, and shell-like balconies are inspired by nature, while the humpback rooﬂine suggests a cresting dragon’s back.

But Gaudí’s bestknown and most exciting

work is the unfinished Sagrada Família, with its melting-ice-creamcone spires and towers. The Nativity Facade, the only part of the church essentially completed in Gaudí’s lifetime, shows the architect’s original vision. Mixing Christian symbolism, images from nature, and the organic flair of Modernisme, it’s a fine example of his unmistakable style. Take an elevator up one of the towers for a gargoyle’s-eye perspective of this inspiring church. Local craftsmen often finish up their careers by putting in a couple of years working on the project. Over a lifetime of visits, I’ve enjoyed watching its progress, and I can’t wait to see it completed – perhaps within this decade. Your admission helps pay for the ongoing construction (buy your timed-entry ticket well in advance).

Gaudí fans also enjoy the artist’s fun-loving genius in the colorful, freewheeling Park Güell, a 30-acre hilltop garden once intended to be a 60-residence housing project. Carpeted with fanciful mosaics and dotted with sculptures (including a giant tiled lizard), this park is a great place to cap the day. Whether in its art, characteristic back lanes, architecture, or proud Catalan culture, Barcelona oﬀers visitors an always colorful, always lively experience.

Public art, such as Joan Miró’s mural on the Ramblas, fi ts seamlessly into Barcelona’s street life. CREDIT: (Cameron Hewitt, Rick Steves’ Europe).

Government

MAY 5, 12, 19, 26

Marion County Development Review

Office of County Engineer, 412 SE 25th Ave., Building 1, Ocala

9am

The committee meets each Monday to review and vote on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. See marion.fl.legistar. com/calendar.aspx for agenda and minutes.

MAY 6, 20

Marion County Board of County Commissioners

McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala

9am

The commission meets in the morning of the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

Ocala City Council

Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala

4pm The council meets each first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar. aspx

Belleview City Commission

Belleview City Hall, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview

6pm

Community Arts

MAY 9

MAY 13, 27

Marion County School Board 1614 E Fort King St.

5:30pm

The board meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. Agendas and minutes are available at go.boarddocs.com/ fl/marion/Board.nsf/Public

MAY 14

Dunnellon City Council

Dunnellon City Hall, 20750 River Dr.

5:30pm

The council generally meets the second Wednesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at dunnellon. granicus.com/ViewPublisher.php?view_id=1

MAY 8

FDOT open house

Courtyard by Marriott Ocala, 3712 SW 38th Ave., Ocala

5:30pm

Meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video available at belleviewfl.org/200/agendasminutes

The Florida Department of Transportation will hold a project open house regarding proposed plans on State Road 200 at SW 62nd Avenue/SW 73rd Street Road. The purpose is to enhance safety and efficiency at the intersection by converting the existing full median opening to a two-way directional median. Join an online webinar at 5:30 p.m. to watch a project presentation and submit written questions or comments using the webinar questions box. Register at fdot.cc/ SR200_at_SW62nd. Visit the project website at cflroads.com/project/992500-3

MAY 2, 9, 16

Levitt Amp Ocala Music Series

Webb Field, MLK Recreation Complex, 1510 NW 4th St., Ocala

6pm

The Marion Cultural Alliance, with the city of Ocala, Dr.

Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Commission of Marion County and Juneteenth Celebration Commission, host the 2025 Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series, with free music every Friday from 6 to 8 pm. Next up is Nattali Rize (reggae). Each event features food trucks, interactive activities and a spotlight on a local nonprofit. Find details at ocalafl.gov

MAY 1-18

Marion County Children’s Alliance Dream Big Benefit

Country Club of Ocala, 6823 SE 12th Circle, Ocala

6pm The alliance’s annual event will feature the annual Dr. Mike Jordan Excellence and Vision Awards, celebrating those who make a difference in our community. For tickets and more information, go to mcchildrensalliance.org

MAY 10

Marion County Master Gardeners Spring Plant Sale

UF/IFAS Extension Marion, 2232 Jacksonville Road, Ocala

8am to noon

The annual event will offer fruit, shade and ornamental trees; native, butterfly, hummingbird and pollinator plants; herbs and perennials. Master Gardeners will be available for consultations and there will be a mobile plant clinic on site. Soil test kits will be available. Free admission. Bring your own wagon. To learn more, call (352) 671-8400.

MAY 10

Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive

Various locations

The easiest way to support the drive is to put canned goods or boxes of non-perishable food by your mailbox on the morning of May 10. Letter carriers will collect the items on their routes. Donors also may leave food at US Postal Service branch locations leading up to and the day of the drive or drop off food at the Interfaith Emergency Services food distribution warehouse at 450 NW 2nd St. or the thrift store at 718 N. Pine Ave., Ocala. All of the donated food remains in Marion County. To learn more, go to iesmarion.org and nalc.org/community-service/food-drive

MAY 10 AND JUNE 14

Don Philpott lectures

Marion County Sheriff’s Office Substation, 3260 SE 80th St., Ocala 10am The Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway will present free lectures by the award-winning writer, journalist and environmental advocate. The topics and dates are Edible Florida, April 19; The History of Wekiwa Springs and Rock Springs Run, May 10; and Florida’s Incredible Wildlife, June 14. For details, call (352) 671-8560.

Marion County Public Schools Graduation ceremonies Belleview High, May 24, 8 am, school stadium Dunnellon High, May 31, 6 pm, World Equestrian Center Forest High, May 30, 6 pm, World Equestrian Center Hillcrest School, May 21, 11am, school gymnasium

Lake Weir High, May 29, 6pm, Southeastern Livestock Pavilion North Marion High, May 28, 6pm, Southeastern Livestock Pavilion Vanguard High, May 30, 6pm, Southeastern Livestock Pavilion West Port High, May 31, 8am, World Equestrian Center

Marion Technical College, June 12, 6pm, First Baptist Church of Ocala MCPS Summer Graduation, July 24, 6pm, Marion Technical Institute Auditorium For more information, call (352) 671-7734.

The SpongeBob Musical Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Boulevard Times vary SpongeBob (Christian Gonzales) is surrounded by colorful characters in the city of Bikini Bottom, among the coral reefs of the Pacific Ocean. A French narrator (James Ray Taylor III) introduces this undersea world while a foley artist fish (Alexa Hall) creates imaginative sound effects. This hilarious, family-friendly musical based on the beloved animated series is a delight for all ages. There will be 15 performances: Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $35 for adults and $17 for ages 18 and younger, available at ocalacivictheatre.com, through the box office in person or over the phone at (352) 236-2274.

MAY 2

Seals & Crofts 2 Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 7:30pm Seals & Crofts 2, featuring Brady Seals and Lua Crofts, brings the iconic sounds of Seals & Crofts to a new generation. With reimagined classics like “Summer Breeze,” “Diamond Girl” and “We May Never Pass This Way (Again),” their harmonies pay tribute to the legendary ‘70s duo. For details, go to reillyartscenter. com

MAY 3

Free First Saturday Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am-5pm

In celebration of the special exhibition, “Framing Tokyo: Joel Bustamante’s Architectural Photography,” a double-feature film screening will start at 11 a.m. in the auditorium. Following a brief introduction by Appleton staff, the screening will begin with the original Japanese “Godzilla” (1954), followed by “The Return of Godzilla” (1984), which restarts the storyline and picks up after the original film. Admission to the museum will be free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Guests are invited to explore the permanent collection and special exhibitions, enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace and stop by Michelle’s NY Style Hot Dogs and The Donut Express food trucks. For more information, call (352) 291-4455 or visit appletonmuseum.org

MAY 3

“Feelin’ Good” (The Ultimate Michael Bublè Experience)

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 7:30pm Anthony Bernasconi emulates the effortless class that Michael Buble so famously exudes. He has captured the velvet voice and smooth moves that have famously reinvigorated the next generation of artists. This is a journey of Buble’s greatest hits accompanied by the standards that have withstood the tests of time. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com

MAY 4

May the 4th Be With You

Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala 1pm The theatre will screen “The Empire Strikes Back!” The event includes Star Wars cocktails, trivia, and photo ops with members from the 501st Legion. Tickets for this event are limited and available on a select-a-seat basis. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com/themarion

MAY 4

CMC Spring Recital

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 1, 2:30 and 4pm Cheer on Ocala Symphony Orchestra Community Music Conservatory students as they showcase their semester’s skills and talents in recital. The showcase will feature instrumental soloists and group class performances, with ticket proceeds supporting the CMC scholarship and programming fund. Find out more at reillyartscenter.com

MAY 8

Tribute to the Women of Song

Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala 7pm The benefit concert for PACE Center for Girls Marion will feature vocalists backed by the band Voltron Collective to perform iconic hits by female artists, spanning multiple decades and musical genres. This concert invites you to dance, sing along and share the energy of empowering anthems that unite generations. Learn more at mariontheatre.org

MAY 9

Neon Nostalgic: A Live ‘80s Music TV

Experience

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala

7:30pm

This show creates a visually immersive and entertaining experience. The setlist includes hits from Prince, The Cure, Bon Jovi, Billy Idol, Duran Duran, Queen, U2, Bruce Springsteen and others. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com

MAY 9

Sit Down for Stand Up Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala

7:30pm You won’t want to miss this hilarious stand-up comedy event featuring Patrick Garrity, Bob Holden and Jake Polin. Get details at mariontheatre.org

MAY 10

Blues in the Box: J.P. Soars

NOMA Black Box, Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala

7:30pm Blues guitarist and vocalist J.P. Soars, a past winner of the International Blues Challenge and Albert King Best Guitarist Award, has performed worldwide alongside legends like Buddy Guy and Joe Bonamassa. With a deep catalog spanning over 15 years, including his latest release “Brick By Brick,” he delivers a powerful live experience. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com

MAY 11

Symphony Under the Stars Ocala Golf Club, 3130 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Gates open 3pm, music begins 5pm, fireworks 8:45pm

The beloved Mother’s Day tradition, organized by Fine Arts For Ocala, or FAFO, will feature Becky Baby, the Ocala Symphony Orchestra and fireworks. Food, water, soft drinks, beer and wine, chairs, tables, blankets and flashlights are welcomed, but many of those items will be available for purchase from vendors. Do not bring tents, big umbrellas or pets. Adult tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the gate. Those ages 17 and younger are admitted at no charge. A VIP ticket option, at $95, includes VIP parking, dinner in the Ocala Golf Club clubhouse, one free drink ticket and a cash bar or BYOB, reserved Adirondack chair seating, enhanced audio and private restrooms. Pre-paid parking is $15 per car. Adirondack chairs may be rented for $10 per chair. Advance tickets are available at: Your Heart’s Desire, 1915 E Silver Springs Blvd.; the Ocala Golf Club; and Red Fern Pet Lodge, 1509 NE 22nd Ave., all in Ocala. To learn more, visit fafo.org/symphony-1

THROUGH JUNE 29

“Strength and Resilience: Works by Carmen Rojas Ginés and Naomi Shanti” Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Times vary

The collaboration between metal sculptor Carmen Rojas Ginés and fine artist and tattooist Naomi Shanti features “Guerreras,” a series of 12 metal sculptures inspired by the women who have shaped Gines’ life. Shanti created 12 original tattoos interpreting each sculpture through her own perspective, life story and the experiences of the individuals she tattooed. Blending natural elements like birds and flora with bold lines and form, her designs celebrate strength, resilience and the warrior spirit within women. She photographed the individuals and created unique works of art that feature her inspired tattoos. There will be an artists talk at 2pm on May 17. To learn more, go to appletonmuseum.org

Nattali Rize will bring reggae music to the Levitt Amp concert on May 2 at Webb Field in Ocala. [Photo courtesy city of Ocala]

Sudoku is played on a grid of 9 x 9 spaces. Within the rows and columns are 9 “squares” (made up of 3 x 3 spaces). Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be ﬁlled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the same row, column or square.

Try making fajitas in the oven; you may never go back to the stovetop

Fajitas are a sizzling spectacle, but we wanted a recipe that was more about flavor than theater and used only one baking sheet. We chose flank steak, preferred by tasters for its beefy flavor, tenderness, and availability. Since we couldn’t sear it on a baking sheet in the oven (even at a hot 475 degrees), we relied on a potent, dark-colored spice rub to make up for the missing flavor and color. A mixture of chili powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper did the trick.

After tossing strips of bell peppers, rings of red onion, and slices of garlic in vegetable oil, salt, and pepper, we spread them out on the baking sheet and slid it into the oven on the lower-middle rack to ensure that the vegetables browned and didn’t steam. We then pushed the vegetables to one side of the baking sheet and added the rubbed steak, cut into three equal pieces, to the other side of the sheet. In just 8 minutes, the meat was at the target temperature of 135 degrees.

Cooked to medium instead of mediumrare, the steak was less chewy when sliced and dropped into a tortilla. Once the steak was rested and sliced, we tossed it with the browned, tender vegetables plus chopped cilantro and a spritz of lime juice to brighten the ﬂavors.

One-Pan Steak Fajitas Serves 4 to 6

3 red bell peppers, stemmed, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch-wide strips

1 large red onion, cut into 1/2-inchthick rounds

3 garlic cloves, sliced thin 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Salt and pepper

1 1/2 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon packed brown sugar

1 (1 1/2-pound) ﬂank steaks, trimmed 8 (6-inch) ﬂour tortilla

1 tablespoon lime juice

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

1Adjust oven rack to lower-middle position and heat oven to 475 degrees. Toss bell peppers, onion, garlic, oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper together on a rimmed baking sheet and spread into an even layer. Roast until vegetables are lightly browned around edges, about 10 minutes.

2 Meanwhile, combine chili powder, sugar, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper in a bowl. Cut steak lengthwise with grain into three equal pieces. Pat steaks dry with paper towels, then sprinkle all over with spice mixture. Wrap tortillas in aluminum foil; set aside.

3Remove sheet from oven. Using a rubber spatula, push vegetables to 1 half of the sheet. Place steaks on the other half of the sheet, leaving space between steaks. Roast until vegetables are spotty brown and meat registers 135 degrees (for medium), about 8 minutes.

4Remove sheet from oven, transfer steaks to cutting board, and let rest, uncovered, for 5 minutes. Place tortillas in oven until warm, about 5 minutes. Transfer vegetables to a serving platter and toss with lime juice.

5Slice steaks thin against grain and transfer to platter with vegetables. Sprinkle with cilantro. Serve steak and vegetables with warm tortillas.