Issuu

CHRISTI ASHBY

111 march | april 2017

features 98

111

These ladies — Kimberly Lawton Koon, Jennifer Quigley, Wendy J. Connor, Trina Gregory-Propst, Summer Rodman and Christy Scanlon — in charge are dedicated, diligent and daring. They run successful companies from family-owned legacies to innovative start-ups. And they all have something in common — they’re doing it their way. They share what motivates them, what challenges they face and what they would do differently, if anything.

2017 Orlando Women’s Conference Preview and Program The 7th Annual Orlando Women’s Conference will be held Friday, April 7 at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando. This one-day program for women features more than 30 speakers in 13 sessions, a marketplace with health and wellness information, boutique-style shopping and spa experiences, a keynote luncheon and wrap-up reception. Here’s your preview to the event with details about the sessions and schedule of activities.

on the cover: Christy Scanlon, president and COO of Masterpiece

Design Group, photographed at her offices by Christi Ashby. Story on page 98.

CHRISTI ASHBY

Women Who OWN It

march | april 2017

columns 20

10 THE LIST

People, places and things: Re-accessorize your wrist with an Hermès watch from Be On Park; Fresh spring fashions from local boutiques; Women to Watch: Karen Connors takes

the reigns of The University Club during its rebuilding and rebranding; Dr. Mary Jo Ross brings a new food festival to town for a good cause; and Tupperware’s Yolanda Londoño tells her life story; Eye on Arts: The Orlando Museum of Art’s Acquisition Trust and a roundup of upcoming arts events; Wine, Women and Shoes returns with even more in store for its seventh year; High Tea & Hats to benefit Seniors First is a fun afternoon tea for the whole family.

44 BEAUTY, BODY & SPIRIT

Apothecology in Winter Park offers a unique experience with spa treatments, tea service, and novelty and beauty items for sale; Bonnie Pierce and Tammy Smith offer advice for joining a group fitness class and describe some of the different types; Dr. Deborah Harding shares some of the latest medical advancements and devices, such as a hands-free breast pump and a blood-free glucose tracker; YMD Eye & Face laser and plastic surgery center gets a facelift.

56 TASTES & EXPERIENCES

DoveCote offers brunch with French flair; La Luce at Hilton Bonnet Creek honors its late founding chef by staying true to her cuisine and vision; Experience inviting ambiance and fresh food and beverage at Earls Kitchen + Bar at The Mall Millenia; Bits & Bites: New hot spots and a chef-driven community dinner.

64 HOME & DESIGN

A preview of the New American Home created by Phil Kean Design Group; Karen LeBlanc shares what’s new and next in kitchen and bath design trends from the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show held in Orlando this past January.

72 AGENDA

Community and charity events: Phil Kean Design Group hosts the New American Home

Soiree; The Victory Cup Initiative awards deserving charities; An elegant annual benefit for St. Jude’s Research Hospital; Appleton Creative’s Brain Crush; USTA’s grand opening; Park Avenue Merchants Association meet and greet; Greenburg Traurig hosts Women of the Boardroom; Antiques Vintage and Garden Show Preview Party; 25th Annual Chef’s Gala for Heart of Florida United Way; and more.

128 GIVING BACK

A past president of the Central Florida Women’s League, Sue Goodwin shares some of the organization’s most memorable community projects and contributions. Orange Appeal makes a great gift any time! Subscribe at orangeappeal.com. Get all the event info by signing up for the e-newsletter or visiting our interactive website. For changes of address, please e-mail subscriptions@orangeappeal.com.

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Women in Bloom

still remember the outrageous — at

the ’80s celebrating the fact that we could

the time — ad campaign that shout-

make the bacon and still fry the bacon

ed to women, “We’ve come a long

“Because I’m a Woman.”

way, baby.” Unfortunately, it was just

Women have, indeed, come a long way

a catchy slogan promoting smoking

in the past 100 years, beginning with the

with a slimmer (more feminine?) ciga-

hard-fought battle over our right to vote.

rette. Then there was Helen Reddy’s ’70s

March is Women’s History Month and it’s

anthem I Am Woman (hear me roar). And

a good opportunity to revisit the past. I,

what about the fragrance commercial in

and other women of my generation, are well aware of the progress — and lack of, in some cases. But it concerns me that younger women probably have no idea what the references above mean, and maybe do not even think there is more to do. I put up with sexism in the workplace until I started my own company. Sometimes it was blatant — not getting a raise because I had a husband with a job — other days it was just a nudging of the line, an innuendo or dismissal. It was just the way things were. As a girl, I could not wear pants to school until my sophomore year. And even then, it had to be a matching pantsuit with the top covering the derrière. By junior year we could wear pants and by senior year we could don jeans. Even as a teen, I never really considered a career as the choices were typically between a nurse, secretary or teacher. My accidental (I assumed I would stay home when I had children) career actually began when I was 30. And my first realization that things could change for women in the workplace was when I got called into a meeting with my company’s HR director. She told me I would be getting a substantial raise because I was doing the same (better, in fact) job as a man in a similar executive position but was making thousands of dollars less. I wish that happened more. It’s 2017 so let’s celebrate the women who have come before and the women who are the future!

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and

@OrangeAppeal.

EDITOR & PUBLISHER

Christi Ashby christi@orangeappeal.com ASSISTANT PUBLISHER

Kate Slentz kate@orangeappeal.com MARKETING ASSOCIATE

Wendy Tramell wendy@orangeappeal.com CIRCULATION CONSULTANT

Mollie Oâ€™Shea BUSINESS MANAGER

Robert Ashby CONTRIBUTORS

Sue Goodwin Deborah Harding, MD Victor Harding, MD Karen LeBlanc Bonnie Pierce, CPT, RYT Tammy Smith, RN, CPT PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Rita Tyrrell FOR ADVERTISING:

advertising@orangeappeal.com FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS:

subscriptions@orangeappeal.com

orangeappeal.com Copyright 2017. No materials may be reproduced without permission. Please do not send unsolicited articles or photographs. Publisher not responsible for individual opinions contained herein. Orange Appeal (Permit #201) is published bi-monthly by Appeal Media & Events Group, 1111 Charming St., Maitland, FL 32751. Printed in USA. Standard postage paid at Harrisburg, PA and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Orange Appeal, 1111 Charming St., Maitland, FL 32751 6

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connect! MAIL

Make sure you receive your issues of Orange Appeal right in your mailbox. If you haven’t signed up in the past six months, please visit orangeappeal.com/subscribe and click on the special offer. Please send change of address info to subscriptions@orangeappeal.com. Interior Appeal will be sent to you three times a year with your subscription!

Sign up at orangeappeal.com for the Orange Appeal e-newsletter, delivered to your inbox at least twice monthly. Keep up with community and charity events! For advertising info, email: advertising@orangeappeal.com To submit events, email: events@orangeappeal.com

EVENTS Orlando

The Orlando Women’s Conference, held each spring, CONFERENCE is one day for empowerment and inspiration. For details visit orlandowomensconference.com. For sponsorship information email kate@orangeappeal.com.

WOMEN’S

Monthly Ladies Luncheons with special guest speakers are held on the last Tuesday of the month from January through October. Space is limited and reservations/prepayment is required. For more information visit the Orange Appeal Facebook page.

SOCIAL MEDIA

ORANGE APPEAL Tag, share and follow… check out all the event photos and latest info.

@APPEAL_MEDIA Get behind-the-scenes peeks!

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the

It’s springTIME! And what better way to brighten your spring wardrobe than with an impeccably made and stylish timepiece. From its origins as a harness and saddle maker, Hermés has retained precision, patience and elegance — three sterling qualities governing its watches, which are crafted in singular complications, delicate motifs, as well as demanding expertise pervading every detail. Shown here is the Hermès Kelly watch on orange double-tour calfskin strap, $2,725, and Hermès gold-plated H Heure watch on detachable alligator strap, $3,385. Available at Be On Park on Park Avenue in Winter Park. 10

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flirtyfashions Spring is the perfect season to renew and refresh… your wardrobe! Add a little romance, a pop of color, a flowy silhouette or a fun print. We rounded up some fresh spring looks from local boutiques for a little inspiration.

Kooples “Moulin Rouge” lace blouse, $325; Kooples stretch smoking pant, $295; Joie “Nadav” black suede sandals, $298; Kendra Scott necklace, $95; and Kendra Scott earrings, $55, available at Continuum in Lake Mary Milly “Nicole” dress, $380; Joie “Nadav” black suede sandals, $298; LaCosta Swarovski crystal pendant necklace, $199; and Shiraleah “Indie” wristlet, $46, available at Continuum in Lake Mary

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thelist

flirtyfashions

analili strapless top, $86; analili handkerchief skirt-pant, $152, Quay “All My Love” sunglasses, $55; Whitley V champagne tassel earrings, $44; and Virtue stretch stone and opal bracelets, $30-$44, available at Scout & Molly’s of Park Avenue

Julie Brown "Livie" navy paisley dress, $168; Lisi Lerch "Margo" earrings, $78; and Roberta Roller Rabbit "Paula" cotton print dress, $175; Lisi Lerch "Margo" earrings, $78, available at The Grove in Winter Park Show Me Your Mumu “Logan” lace-up maxi in Bouquet Blue, $176; Vanessa Mooney “The Lake” earrings, $55; Betsy Pittard Designs “Alisabeth lariat” necklace (worn hanging down back), $62; Batey Shop “larimar” and acai bead stretch bracelets, $24 ,and Betsy Pittard blue bead stretch bracelet, $32, available at Scout & Molly’s of Park Avenue

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thelist

flirtyfashions June jacket, $48; Trina Turk blouse, $168; Current Elliott cropped jeans, $228; Dolce Vita booties, $198; Tom Ford sunglasses, $385; and Gemara necklaces, $48 and $44; available at Tuni Winter Park

Escapada “Naomi” romper, $78; Jack Rogers “Shelby” sandals, $148; Brighton “Baby Jake” handbag, $280; Spartina “Compass” necklace, $36; Bourbon & Boweties bangle, $31; Alex and Ani “Canyon” beaded bangle, $38; Brighton “Woodstock” bracelet, $40, with woven bead charm, $11; available at Walk On Water in Lake Mary

Tempo Paris burnout tunic, $74; Tribal jeans, $88; Yellowbox “Alexandria” wedges, $58; What’s Hot Jewelry stone pendant necklace, $30; What’s Hot Jewelry beaded wrap bracelet, $30; and Bourbon & Boweties bangle, $25; available at Walk On Water in Lake Mary

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thelist

flirtyfashions

Go Silk caftan, $235; Go Silk blouse, $227; Citizens of Humanity pants, $178; Dolce Vita booties, $198; Chan Luu necklaces, $115 and $155; and Cimber necklace, $95; available at Tuni Winter Park

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WOMEN TO WATCH

KAREN CONNORS:

At the Helm of a Major Relaunch Karen Connors, president of Quality Project Control, is currently serving as only the second female president of the 90-year-old University Club, a private downtown organization formed for socialization and philanthropy in the form of scholarships. Her professional experience is certainly a bonus for the Club that is in physical transition with a new home slated to open in 2018 on its former site at the southwest corner of the intersection of Central Boulevard and Rosalind Avenue. The new and expanded (25,000 square feet to include a gym and spa) club will be in the 22-story high-rise Modera Central. KAREN IS ACUTELY FAMILIAR

Corral (equine assisted therapy for veterans

learned more about the Club, she decided

with the construction process, with a

and at-risk women/children), Orlando and

to join. “It was great because I didn’t have

background in engineering and manage-

Orange County Mayor’s Veterans Advisory

an office then and they had a conference

ment. “I work in military simulation. I

Councils, Heroes’ Commons (mortgage free

room I could use if I was entertaining cli-

started out in submarines and that took

homes for veterans), Florida Citrus Sports

ents and wanted to have lunch,” she adds.

me from the D.C. area to Orlando. Then I

Military Affairs Committee Chair, and the

She was also comfortable going there as a

did some construction engineering project

Association of the U.S. Army.

female on her own — her husband was

management and then got back into simu-

As for her introduction to The Univer-

working out of the area at the time. “Every

lation. Most of my 30 years have been in

sity Club, she says, “I happened to call a

time I walked into the lounge in the back,

Army and Navy simulation — anything to

colleague, who is a member of the [Univer-

people would stand up and introduce them-

help train the soldier to fire the weapon or

sity] Club, to ask him a few professional

selves. It was wonderful. I met great people

operate the vehicle,” Karen says. She

questions. And he said to meet him at the

and had good conversations,” she adds.

refers to this as adult video games, even

Club. I lived downtown and probably

Membership offers more than socializ-

though she admits she never played them.

jogged past the building 40 times or more

ing though. The philanthropic arm is a

Karen received her B.S. in industrial engi-

and never knew what that building was

501c3 nonprofit that has given more than

across from the library,” she explains.

$1.5 million in scholarships since 1932.

neering from Virginia Tech, her M.S. in industrial engineering and management systems from the University of Central Florida (while she was working full time), and earned her project management professional status from the Project Management Institute. In 2011, Karen started her consulting business, Quality Project Control. “I thought, I can do this on my own. A lot of the companies I had worked for became the companies I consulted for, including the one I had just left that became my first client. It worked out really well,” she explains. She is very involved in the community as well, serving on boards for the National Center for Simulation, Mission United (veteran support through 2-1-1), Crossroads 20

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Once she had her meeting there and

This past year, The University Club handed

The new 22-story high-rise, Modera Central, will include 350 luxury apartment homes, ground floor retail, and a new clubhouse for The University Club. The clubhouse will span four floors with nearly 25,000 square feet of dedicated member spaces featuring a gym, a spa, and various spaces for eating, drinking and socializing, including an outdoor terrace elevated 20 feet above street level. The projected opening of the new clubhouse is scheduled for Fall 2018.

thelist out a total of $50,000 to five local colleges and universities. The University of Central Florida, FAMU School of Law, Rollins College, Valencia College and Seminole State College each received $10,000 to distribute to their students. This was definitely a plus for Karen. “I think education is very important, and I donate personally as well as offer my time and resources to education programs and organizations. And there is a charitable works committee at the Club that I became part of — I also chaired it. Over the years, the Club has donated space for charitable organizations to hold events. After that I was asked to be on the board of directors. Then I was secretary, vice president, and now I am president,” she says. Many people told her it was too bad she was president when there was no building. “But I always say the Club is not the building. To me, to be in the background of the rebranding, relaunching is amazing. There will be shiny stuff, but if there are not good people, it doesn’t matter,” she adds. Members will continue to meet at various locations, including the Country Club of Orlando, during the construction. Her presidency is historic considering The University Club has not always welcomed women. She says there has definitely been a rise in female members as well as younger members. Change is also coming to the organization as an emphasis on telling the story, who and what The University Club is, gets underway, as well as a new symbol as the logo is being designed and selected. The big construction sign on-site has also raised the Club’s profile and piqued interest. Karen feels many aspects of The University Club have been a well-kept secret and she is happy the story is finally getting out. “I am very excited for people to know what we’re about and not as a recruiting effort, as an effort to understand there is a lot of history around this club, about who we are and what we do,” she says. 22

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WOMEN TO WATCH

DR. MARY JO ROSS PROVIDES FOOD FOR THOUGHT by Kate Slentz

ith

extensive

started doing events with the college

background in the

because they didn’t have the events pro-

food service, events

gram at the time,” she explains. “I was

and catering, and

producing events for the school and trying

hospitality industry,

to get our brand out there.”

Dr. Mary Jo Ross is

This led to her founding the Dick Pope

utilizing her skills acquired throughout

Legacy Awards, which recognize leaders

her decorated career to bring a new event

who have strengthened the sustainability of

to the Orlando area, Foodstock Orlando, a

Florida’s hospitality and tourism industries.

multi-day series of restaurant social events,

The awards are presented every year at an

education exhibits, and a food and music

industry luncheon that benefits the Grand

festival that celebrates Florida’s agricul-

Tour Foundation for hospitality education.

ture and hospitality industries. This pas-

chise in western Pennsylvania to working

sion project for Dr. Ross benefits the

with the Ritz-Carlton,” she shares.

“Some of my hot buttons are, first of all, making sure that we have a tremendous

Grand Tour Foundation, which provides

But academia was calling her name.

and educated workforce in the state of

scholarships and grants to the hospitality,

She went back to Pennsylvania and worked

Florida in hospitality because that is our

restaurant and tourism students in the

as a senior buyer and assistant food and bev-

main blood. And then also to make sure

state of Florida.

erage director for Pittsburgh Public Schools,

that we are integrating Florida agriculture

“It’s been a whole evolution of my life

which led her to the PhD program at Penn

into our restaurants, not only because

really,” she explains. “My grandparents

State University where she obtained her

local sourcing of food is healthy, but also to

were in the grocery business and my par-

doctorate in education with a specialization

keep the Florida agriculture business

ents were in the lumber business and to

in instructional systems technology, and

steadfast,” Dr. Ross says.

escape the lumber yard, I started bartend-

was a project manager and subject matter

This is why she created Foodstock

ing on the weekends and one thing led to

expert of contract food service operations

Orlando, working tirelessly to secure

the other.”

with the State of Pennsylvania Department

sponsors, entertainment and restaurant

She actually went to college as a theater

of Nutrition to develop quality food ser-

partners as well as work with the local

major but eventually got a sales position at

vice operations for public schools. Basically,

agriculture industries “to focus on what’s

a hotel. “Having a theater background, I

she had to work with the agriculture indus-

available out there, but we also want to

was the go-to person to up-light a table and

try to help come up with menu items that

bring in the education component, and to

figure out how to work a microphone,” she

kids would eat, she explains.

tie it all up in a bow we’ve got to make it

says. While that led her into the events side

Dr. Ross then relocated back to Florida

fun,” she adds. The four-day festival will

of the hotel industry, she was also pulled

in 2001 to serve as an assistant professor at

take place March 1-4 at various dining dis-

into the food side because of her knowledge

the newly established University of Cen-

tricts

of food from her grandparent’s grocery

tral Florida Rosen College of Hospitality

I-Drive 360, Church Street and Pointe

store business. “I had a leg up working with

Management. During her tenure, she was

Orlando. Each night will be a different

caterers and chefs. [I] spent a lot of time

the organization’s director of events from

“party” in a different district with its own

working in hotels from a Holiday Inn fran-

2005 through 2009. “When I got here I

theme, flavors and entertainment.

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throughout

Orlando,

including

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WOMEN TO WATCH

“This has been coming for a long time,”

those that can make the difference, should

Dr. Ross explains. “With the festival, we

make the difference because a lot of people

should be able to generate more revenue for

can’t. Being a professor for 18 years and

the Foundation.” Her mission is to provide

having all this background in food and

funding to as many hospitality education

beverage, having all this event experience,

programs as she can, from state universi-

and having worked in this community for

ties and colleges to training programs like

almost 20 years, it was just a natural fit; it’s

Florida ProStart.

just what needed to be done. I’m hoping

“I always felt the responsibility that

we build it and it’s successful,” she says.

THE FIRST ANNUAL FOODSTOCK ORLANDO FESTIVAL Foodstock Orlando is a multi-day food and music festival produced by the Grand Tour Foundation with the support of the Orlando community. The celebration is a combination of local food vendors, Florida agriculture expositions, along with live music and entertainment for the fundraising benefit of hospitality and tourism education scholarships and grants. Party passes are $49 in advance or you can purchase a three-day pass for $125 and include food, beer and wine samplings. Here’s the schedule of events.

TASTE OF FOODSTOCK AT CHURCH STREET DISTRICT Wednesday, March 1, 6-9pm

Featured restaurants: Ferg’s Depot; Ember; Cuisiniers Catered Cuisine & Events; Snowbird Vintners; Broken Strings Brewers; Black Cauldron Brewery; The Corner Café; Chocolate Compass Featured entertainment: B.B. King’s All-Star Band

TASTE OF FOODSTOCK AT I-DRIVE 360 Thursday, March 2, 6-9pm Party pass includes a free ride on the Coca-Cola Orlando Eye

TASTE OF FOODSTOCK AT POINTE ORLANDO Friday, March 3, 6-9pm Featured restaurants: Cuba Libre; B.B. King’s; The Main Event; Lafayette’s; Itta Bena; Taverna Opa Featured entertainment: Pointe Collective

FOODSTOCK PARTY AT THE BROKEN CAULDRON BREWERY Saturday, March 4, Noon – 3pm Free admission with live music, DJ, food trucks, BBQ and craft beer For more details or to purchase passes, visit foodstockorlando.com.

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WOMEN TO WATCH

Yolanda Londoño:

Confidence Is No Fear of Failure The women shareholders of Greenburg Traurig recently hosted a Women of the Boardroom breakfast with special guest speaker Yolanda Londoño, vice president, global social responsibility, Tupperware Brands.

he began with a statement

to make a difference and make things better.

value proposition in her executive leader-

about an early challenge that

“When people ask how I came to do

ship role. In reflecting on her philosophy,

shaped her future. “First of

what I’m doing, I think I’m the best exam-

she relayed a recent conversation with a

all, I am an immigrant to the

ple of the accidental professional. It’s just

friend, also an immigrant from Colombia,

United States. I got off the

being in the place where things happen

who told her that organizations often confuse

plane from Bogotá [Colombia] in Denver

and I just took a leap of faith to begin with

what they do every day with their purpose.

and experienced something I never had

USAID. The agency was focused on work-

“That really started me thinking and

before — winter. I spent the first few years

ing with the poorest of the poor. I knew I

realizing that it happens to people too.

not knowing where I was or what I was

could thrive there,” she explains.

That’s why I don’t focus on what I’ve done.

doing,” Yolanda says.

It was at USAID where she met her

We should focus on what we do differently.

“So I started off with my wet feet in snow

husband, a demographer with a doctorate

We can do a lot of things, and that’s the

at the age of 7. From there we moved an

in economics. His job led to several moves

tactics, but we have to execute in our own

awful lot. I was in 14 schools before I grad-

for the family including London, where

lives to our own value proposition. It’s

uated high school — from California to

she took yet another job she did not have

important to know the difference between

Texas to Mexico City and back to Bogotá.

any previous knowledge about, marketing

what we stand for and what we do every

The opportunity to step out of my level of

services manager. In that position she

day,” she says.

comfort was a transformation,” she adds.

became more aware of and vocal about

Empowering other women is an inte-

Her natural curiosity led her to the field

gender issues in the workplace. As her

gral part of who she is and what she does.

of journalism and after receiving a degree

husband was transferred to different

“At Tupperware, our boss [CEO Rick

in communications from the University of

countries, Yolanda was not always able to

Goings] always talks about what we can do

Houston, she found herself back in Bogotá

work so she spent her time volunteering.

to empower women and in his mind there

working for the prestigious news agency

Later, after returning to the U.S.,

are always two of us — the person we are

United Press International (UPI). “The

Yolanda spent 15 years as the president and

and the person we could be,” she explains.

whole group was led by men who had no

CEO of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of

Confidence is at the forefront of the

degrees, and did not speak English. I was

Commerce. She applied for the position

Tupperware brand — “Confidence becomes

a little lamb going into the slaughterhouse.

without even knowing what a chamber of

you” is part of the Tupperware Brands logo.

I ended up getting fired,” she says.

commerce — or a Hispanic — was and

A recent Tupperware survey confirmed

But that did not derail her. She was

ended up growing the organization from

that women who lose the fear of failure have

recruited by USAID [United States Agency

200 to 1,200 members. Her next move was

confidence. “You may have failed in what

of International Development] in Bogotá

to JP Morgan Chase as the vice president

was expected of you, but you did not fail in

where she worked on rural economic devel-

of philanthropy.

what you were doing. Confidence is saying

opment projects for women. Her curiosity

At Tupperware, she has been able to

— especially the why — led her to seek ways

combine all her interests, experience and

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‘I did something. It may not have gone as well as it could, but I did it,’” she says.

thelist eyeonarts

Orlando Museum of Art Acquisition Trust:

Building a Contemporary Art Collection

group of art lovers and collectors dedicated to sharing their passion with others formed more than 30 years ago to ensure that the Orlando

Rocky Santomassino, David Matteson, Glen Gentele, Jose J. Cabrera, Francine Newberg, Gail Winn and Michael Wenrich

Museum of Art would have important contemporary works in its permanent collection. With that mission and intent, the Acquisition Trust has been instrumental in the purchase of art by well-known artists such as Robin Rhode, Elizabeth Murray, John Chamberlain, Robert Rauschenberg, Pat Steir, Kerry James Marshall, Jennifer Bartlett, Nick Cave, Mel Kendrick, Tom McGrath and Therman Statom. We had the opportunity to sit down with several of the members — Francine Newberg, David Matteson, Michael Wenrich,

Artwork: Robin Rhode, Scales, 2015, c-print, 14 x 20 ½ in. (each), 28 total. Purchased by the Acquisition Trust. © Robin Rhode. Image courtesy of Orange Appeal.

Gail Winn, Rocky Santomassino and Jose J. Cabrera — and Glen Gentele, director

advancing the public’s connection to and

Members of the Acquisition Trust par-

and CEO of the Orlando Museum of Art, to

understanding of the art of our time.

ticipate in the process by voting on pur-

find out more about the organization and

That’s critical as a vision for the future. As

chases. They also have the opportunity to

view some of the pieces in the collection.

the Acquisition Trust has grown over the

travel with other members visiting homes

“The Acquisition Trust is in its 33rd

years the focus is: what is relevant today in

of private collectors and galleries, and

year and our goal is to create a contempo-

the art world, in the field of contemporary

meeting artists in their studios. There are

rary collection of art here at the Orlando

art, from a global perspective? And it also

also members-only events and private

Museum of Art. To date we have pur-

balances the collecting efforts of the entire

tours of OMA exhibitions.

chased 50 works and 33 more have come

museum from the early American — 18th

“Being part of the Acquisition Trust

to us through donations from our mem-

century to 1945 — through contemporary

has opened my eyes to the various forms

bers and people they know. We feel like

art. They complement each other — the

that contemporary takes. There are videos

we have a really good start on a very sig-

Friends of American Art [another group

and other works that aren’t typical canvas

nificant collection of art. I think there is a

that supports the purchases of 18th century

and paint, metal or plaster. It’s all-encom-

great amount of excitement on the part of

to early 20th century pieces] and the

passing,” Gail Winn says.

the Acquisition Trust at this point. People

Acquisition Trust. It’s very important for a

To that point, one of the first pieces the

are excited to be part of the group building

healthy organization that we’re not all of

Acquisition Trust acquired after Glen’s

this collection as part of our cultural com-

one mind. We are an inclusive group and I

arrival in 2013 was 20,000 pounds of

munity,” says Francine Newberg, Acquisi-

love when Francine says we are trying to

concrete in the form of two sculptures —

tion Trust president.

develop connoisseurship among people

companion pieces — by the artist Mel

The group credits Glen for bringing in

who are interested in learning and traveling

Kendrick. Many of the members admit

important exhibitions and educational

to other exhibits and meeting other direc-

they were not very knowledgeable about

programming that tie into the Trust’s mis-

tors and curators, and connecting with the

contemporary art before becoming part of

sion. “Underscoring that is this sub text of

artists producing the art,” Glen adds.

the organization.

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thelist eyeonarts Mel Kendrick, jack #4, 2011, cast pigmented concrete, 125 x 70 x 65in. Purchased with funds provided by the Acquisition Trust, with additional funds provided by the Rita and Jeffrey Adler Foundation, an anonymous donor, Francine and Neil Newberg, Barbara and Gary Sorensen and Patricia Dial Vig. (C) Mel Kendrick/Courtesy Mary Boone Gallery, New York.

of the annual membership dues go directly to the purchase of art for the collection. Some members have been on board since the group’s inception, but new members are

illustrations for Bonwit Teller. His gift was the largest ever received by the museum.

“I have been a member for 16 or 17 years and have always really enjoyed the trips. I was a collector of traditional art. I knew nothing about contemporary art. My reason for joining was to learn. The president of the Acquisition Trust at that time was Bob Feldman who is the crème de la crème of collectors. He was my inspiration and the bug bit me. I am a small collector but I love it; I understand it more. Talking to the artists and hearing them explain their work and how it evolves is absolutely fascinating,” Rocky Santomassino shares. Glen explains that the group is one that likes to have fun but always with a pur-

warmly welcomed into the collectors’ club. “I am fairly new to the group. When I

“It’s very restful and thoughtful and

first moved here the museum was a little

has works by renowned artists that are

sleepy. A few years ago, I started seeing a

absolutely beautiful,” Francine adds.

change. There was an excitement building

A recent addition made possible by the

when Glen came in. To walk in and see the

Acquisition Trust is by South African art-

Maya Lin exhibit was amazing. I could not

ist Robin Rote who lives in Berlin. “It is a

believe I was in Orlando. This has given me

beautiful photographic installation but

a great way to support the museum,” Jose J.

then we have video interview with the art-

Cabrera explains.

ist in his hometown with his boys behind

Fellow member David Matteson is very

him talking about what they do, where

enthusiastic about his involvement. “This is

they come from. To learn about that is

my first year as part of the group and I was

extremely important and brings an ele-

really just attracted by the membership, the

ment of humanity to it,” Glen adds.

people involved. There is such a great exper-

Michael Wenrich concurs. “My main

tise about contemporary art and I think

interest is that human story in learning

there is a real demand for that in the com-

more about the artists and their process.

munity. People want to understand and

It’s also about learning what types of

appreciate contemporary art on a global

works are being produced. To just go to a

scale. The intimacy you get through the pri-

gallery or museum, look at the work on

vate tours and private collections — the ben-

the wall and take away your own impres-

efits of membership are ten-fold,” he says.

sion. But to get the intimate tour, stories and videos, is wonderful,” he says. The Acquisition Trust is open to new members at several levels and 100 percent

For more information about the Acquisition Trust, contact Casey Hall, 407-896-4231 x232 or chall@omart.org.

Glen Gentele, Rocky Santomassino, Michael Wenrich, Francine Newberg, Gail Winn, Jose J. Cabrera and David Matteson

pose. “An example would be the J. Hyde Crawford Gallery. The $8.3 million gift [nine paintings] for that gallery would not have happened without the museum’s friends in the community and friends of the Trust members. That type of legacy is what inspires other individuals to think about doing the same,” he says. The Gallery, which opened in 2014, features works by leading contemporary artists including Robert Motherwell, Helen Frankenthaler and Richard Diebenkorn. J. Hyde Crawford, a former resident of Orlando who died in 2013, was also an artist known for his

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Artwork: Nick Cave, Soundsuit, 2011, ceramic birds and figures, metal flowers, gramophone, wig, beads, metal armature, appliquéd, knitted and crocheted fabric on mannequin, 112 1/2 x 58 x 47 1/2 in. Purchased with funds provided by the Acquisition Trust. © Nick Cave. Image courtesy of Orange Appeal.

thelist eyeonarts

DISENCHANTED! Brings the Princesses Out The hilarious hit musical DISENCHANTED! was last in town as part of the 2011 Fringe Festival and proved itself to be a winner. It had a sold-out run and was named “Best of Fest.” Presented by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, it’s returning to Orlando as part of a record-breaking North American tour and has been a very popular girls’ night out.

ut these are not the princesses you may remember. These saucy, sassy, storybook heroines have a lot to say about the way

they have been portrayed. Dennis T. Giacino, a former history teacher, came up with the idea for the musical when teaching his class about the colonial settlement at Jamestown, Virginia. He wondered if the real Pocahantas was anything like the image in movies — real and animated. So he reinvented her in a musical number and continued with other famous characters creating an adult version of the tales. The show will play April 11-20 at The Plaza Live and tickets are available online at plazaliveorlando.com.

ART31 2017 Art31 is a series of exhibits and art happenings that honor the legacy of the A&H’s Maitland Art Center (originally the Research Studio.) The centerpiece of Art31, Borrowed Light: Knapp, Morse & Buyssens provides a platform for artists working with lightbased installations to present a comprehensive study of light as art inside the A&H’s Maitland Art Center’s galleries and throughout the National Historic Landmark campus. The exhibition will be displayed March 3 – April 16, and features works by artists Stephen Knapp, Deanna Morse and Ryan Buyssens. The centerpiece of the exhibition is Stephen Knapp’s Lightpaintings, multi-dimensional installations that combine refracted light, paint, and metal and glass sculpture. For more information, visit art31.org. 34

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thelist eyeonarts

An Afternoon of HORSIN’ AROUND

ART IS A DRAG

On Saturday, April 15, the Sanford Art Walk will be a “drag” as the event will combine visual arts with the art of drag. These two forms of selfexpression will be on full display along the Art Walk route from 6-9pm.

For 34 years, Horsin’ Around, benefiting the Atlantic

Art is a Drag encourages drag artists everywhere of any caliber and

Center for the Arts, has been the event to enjoy an after-

level of experience to

noon with friends in support of the arts! The live and silent

participate. And attend-

auctions provide a great venue to make an investment in a

ees will have the unique

piece of art that you’ll be proud to have in your collection.

opportunity to be trans-

Plan a getaway with friends to places like Belcampo in

formed by professional

Belize, Dubai, Colorado Springs, the Napa Valley Film Fes-

makeup

tival, or to visit the Christmas Markets via a cruise on the

“Drag for the Night.”

artists

Miss Sammy and Bridgette Galore

and

Danube. Pick up some restaurant gift certificates, a spa day

End the evening at

or a round of golf. Visit the Arts on Douglas “POP UP Gal-

“Art is a Drag SHOW,”

lery” for buy-now items, to browse the collection, and learn

an extravaganza featur-

about their art consulting services.

ing entertainment from

Horsin’ Around takes place on Saturday, April 2 from

Central Florida’s most accomplished Drag Queens at The Wayne Densch

11am – 3pm at the Brannon Community Center in New

Performing Arts Center from 9pm – midnight. The show includes lip sync

Smyrna Beach. For full details and sponsorship information,

and live comedic performances as well as a live art auction to benefit the

please visit atlanticcenterforthearts.org/support/horsin-

Sanford Art Walk. General admission is $20. For more information,

around/.

visit artisadrag.com.

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thelist eyeonarts

WINTER PARK INSTITUTE WELCOMES

GABRIELLE GIFFORDS AND MARK KELLY

IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE THAT IT HAS BEEN SIX YEARS since the assassination attempt on Congresswoman Gabrielle “Gabby” Giffords’ life. While the elected official of Arizona’s 8th District recovered in the hospital from a gunshot wound to the head, her husband, American astronaut and U.S. Navy Captain Mark Kelly, completed his final space mission as commander of Space Shuttle Endeavour on its final flight in May of 2011. In the face of such devastating trauma, the couple has transformed adversity into an unwavering commitment to each other and a message of hope. They will share this message on stage at the Rollins College Warden Arena at the Alfond Sports Center on April 4 at 7:30pm. Presented by the Winter Park Institute at Rollins College, tickets are currently available at rollins.edu/wpitickets or by calling 407-646-2145. For more information, visit winterparkinstitute.org. 38

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thelist

Wine, Women and Shoes Never Go Out of Style Gather your girlfriends for a fun afternoon of shopping, wine tasting, fashion, auctions and the signature Key to the Closet raffle at the 7th annual Wine Women & Shoes event. “We are celebrating the seventh year of the event and have some great

Carlton again this year,” Amy shares. “Chad Pitt from 101.9 AMP radio is return-

bringing in new vendors and great enter-

ing as our emcee, and we have an exciting

tainment, including fashions by Diana

lineup of silent and live auction items.

Simaan Kessler and music by Strings Etc.

Attendees wear the most fabulous shoes

This year will be a milestone as we will

and we get to honor the ‘Best in Shoe’ as

have raised more than $1 million for Sec-

well as the ‘King of Sole’ at the event.”

event,” says Chair Amy Pennock.

mer and Susie Carlton

are very excited to partner with The Ritz-

surprises in store for this year. We are

ond Harvest Food Bank through this fun

Amy Pennock, Michelle Pal

The volunteer “Sole Men” are a highlight of the afternoon, serving up some

This fundraising event will be held on

delicious shoes on silver platters for ladies

Saturday, April 22, from 2-6pm, at The

to bid on. Attendees will also be treated to

shopping from local and national bou-

Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. “We

delicious food, fine Napa Valley wine and

tiques. Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies is the presenting sponsor for this year’s event and 100 percent of the ticket proceeds benefit Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida to help eradicate hunger in our own community. “The proceeds go to the Second Harvest Food Bank general operating fund that helps to distribute 44 million meals to more than 550 partner agencies throughout our six counties,” Amy explains. General admission tickets are $125 per person, VIP tickets are $185 per person, and corporate tables of 10 are $2,000 and include priority seating. For more information, email Maureen Mikel at mmikel@feedhopenow.org or visit winewomenandshoes.com/orlando.

Jennifer Freda, Carolyn O’Grady and Diane Heiken 40

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thelist

High Tea Hats LADIES (GENTLEMEN ARE ALSO WELCOME), MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR SUNDAY, APRIL 30 for the 10th Annual High Tea & Hats to benefit Seniors First at the Rosen Plaza Hotel. This spirited afternoon supports Seniors First programs that provide a vital support system to the vulnerable senior population. In honor of the 10th anniversary there will be an even larger variety of auction items, the debut of a new menu created specifically for the event by the head chef of Rosen Shingle Creek Resort, and other surprises to add to the magic in the room. High Tea & Hats is a traditional tea luncheon featuring finger sandwiches, scones and jam, fruits and cheeses, petite desserts as well as a variety of teas. Guests are invited to strut their stuff on the stage during a stylish hat parade and contest, then watch the little ones as they walk in the Itsy-Bitsy hat parade. Guests can bid on silent and chance auction items including trips, restaurants, airline tickets, theater and event tickets, and more. There is a grand prize and the amazing Wall of Wine. This is an all-ages event (children are welcome) so you can bring your family, friends and co-workers for an afternoon of fun for a good cause. Tickets are $65 for adults and $40 for children. Tables of 10 and sponsorships are also available. To reserve your seats and learn more, go to highteaandhats.com.

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Clockwise from top left: Marsha Lorenz, Seniors First president and CEO, Nancy Alvarez, WFTV news anchor and event emcee, and Wendy Jackson, Seniors First director Hat judges Lauren Rowe, Christi Ashby, Jeanette Johnson and Leslie Gayle Hat Parade winners 2016

beauty body

&spirit

Apothecology, in Winter Parkâ€™s Hannibal Square, offers a three-in-one experience where you can enjoy a relaxing spa treatment, a market full of fun finds and even a spot of tea in vintage-style surroundings. The full-service day spa features bespoke treatments with certified organic products from The Organic Pharmacy and all-natural and organic products from the Apothecology skincare brand. Before or after a treatment, you can relax in the English library. Afternoon tea is served Friday and Saturday from 2-4pm, and a variety of teas from around the globe can also be purchased by the ounce. Shoppers can browse the tables and shelves filled with whimsical novelties, herbal remedies, and skin and body products. 44

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bb&s

Committing to Fitness with Friends by Bonnie Pierce, CPT, RYT and Tammy Smith, RN, CPT

When you’ve made the commitment to lose weight and lead a healthy lifestyle (by consistently exercising and making better eating choices), many doors will open to help you stay on track and keep you motivated.

ow you want to include

But perhaps you’re not comfortable working

to create a raised anti-fatigue floor for

exercise in your life is

one on one with a trainer and can’t make a

shock absorption.

the first that usually

commitment to yourself to prioritize “work-

comes to mind. One of

ing out” into you’re weekly routine. Or

the choices will be … Do

maybe you’re the type that needs the

you want to work one on one with a per-

encouragement and camaraderie of others

sonal trainer or join a group class? And

to enforce your efforts or push yourself to

the answer can be a combination of the

the next level. Then you may be a good can-

Poured flooring is the type of anti-fatigue

two. Both are great ways to stay in shape.

didate for a group fitness training class.

flooring often found in your local YMCA,

To help you make a decision, let’s take a

Rubber: When it comes to rubber flooring, interlocking rubber mats are the best choice. The good ones are thick and made of high-grade rubber.

gym or school. At first glance it may look

look at what benefits and challenges each

Group Fitness Training

one has to offer.

Small group fitness classes (for safety pur-

out, you’ll notice a big difference in how

poses some classes can be as small as

your legs and body feel because the syn-

three but no larger than 8-10 people) are a

thetic resin used to make the floor has

While group fitness offers great workouts,

great way to stay in shape if you’re a per-

some give to it.

some find that they have better success if

son who feeds off the energy and encour-

they invest in a personal trainer, either for

agement of others. But I’d be remiss if we

the long run or to initially assist. A good

didn’t offer a few tips before we take a look

Characteristics of a Good Shoe

personal trainer offers a wide variety of

at the types of classes out there.

Wear shoes that allow you to move in all

Personal Fitness Training

services that meet each client’s individual

and feel like its concrete but as you work

directions — forward, backward and side-

goals but more importantly, a qualified

Proper Flooring

one can help you with making good

The best flooring for aerobic activity is one

360-degree movements, will be more pro-

dietary choices, hold you accountable for

that has a slight give to it — often referred

tective than a running shoe, which are

“showing up” for your sessions and teach

to as an anti-fatigue floor — because it’s

made for mostly going forward. The best

you the proper way to lift weights or exe-

easy on your joints. There are several dif-

shoes should have a high toe box, substan-

cute a specific movement. This is one

ferent types:

tial side support, thick cushioning and

strategy that benefits you should you decide to join a group fitness class in the future. After working with a trainer, you’ll know your body’s capabilities, will have gained the skills to execute the movements correctly, and be ready to incorpo-

Suspended wood or suspended floating wood are two of the types you’ll find in many gyms. These types of flooring are made from pre-finished hardwood and have an integrated spring subfloor.

to-side. Cross trainers, which allow for

shock absorption. Cross trainers should have a stable sole and thick leather upper. Some cross trainers offer a removable insole, making them ideal if you prefer to use a purchased insole or custom orthotic.

rate this new knowledge when you work

Vinyl or PVC aerobic flooring often comes

Offering different workouts at varying lev-

out with a group.

in one-square-foot tiles that snap together

els, here are some group fitness classes

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you might like to try: BodyPump classes use light to moderate weights with a lot of repetition and movement. This approach gets your heart rate up and your body working, stabilizing muscles that just don’t get challenged with stationary strength work. Body boot camp classes are kind of intense total-body workouts that get your muscles burning calories for hours after you’ve showered. Group cycling or spinning involves a manually-powered stationary bike. The goal isn’t necessarily to crank the resistance to the highest level. Instead, get your pulse racing by increasing your cadence — the way at which you pedal and propel yourself along your imaginary journey. Zumba, which was inspired by the Latin American dance craze that started in the 1990s, continues to be popular today. Cardio kickboxing requires that an instructor lead you on a powerful journey that can transform your body using a blend of martial arts, boxing and dance moves. Overall, you’ll work your strength and endurance to new levels. Yoga is great for stretching joints and muscles, improving flexibility and, of course, its contributions to your general well-being and mental health. Running clubs or training programs can help you prepare for an upcoming event, such as a marathon or mud run, or just help you improve your endurance, speed or overall goals. Pilates classes may look like a yoga session to some people, but the focus is much more on the core muscles. Expect to perform a lot of small core moves (the kind runners often ignore) that get your body shaking. march | april 2017

bb&s The Bar Method

Barre classes incorporate yoga, Pilates and ballet moves into one convenient package.

Have no fear when it comes

Some classes work with an actual ballet

to finding a fitness studio in

bar, while others require no equipment. No matter how particular you are about the way you approach your exercise routine, if you like to work out with others there’s a group fitness class for you. And if you’re nervous about trying one by yourself — bring a friend!

Central Florida! Here are just a few of the options available around town: Orangetheory Fitness 12 Central Florida locations orangetheoryfitness.com

Title Boxing Club in Orlando Altamonte Springs and Winter Park titleboxingclub.com

Guruv Yoga Lake Mary and Dr. Phillips guruvyoga.com

The Bar Method Dr. Phillips and Winter Park orlando-winterpark.barmethod.com

Dance Trance Orlando College Park dancetrancefitness.com

Orlando Fit Body Boot Camp Mills District, Orlando fitbodybootcamp.com

Cyclebar Winter Park winterpark.cyclebar.com

The Pilates Loft Downtown Orlando pilates-loft.com

RDV Sportsplex Maitland mvpsportsclubs.com

Central Florida YMCAs ymcacentralflorida.com

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bb&s NEW AND NOTEWORTHY:

Medical Advances AND Devices The medical field seems as though it is always being re-evaluated and re-invented, maybe not as quickly as the latest version of the iPhone but 2017 is shaping up to be a medically advanced year. Fortunately for the consumer, medical products and services are becoming increasingly more user-friendly and convenient. From saving lives to simply making life just a little easier — let’s check out a few of my favorite medical advancements to date. by Deborah Harding, MD and Victor Harding, MD

women successfully breastfeed as it’s discreet, quiet and easy to use. Shaped as breasts, it creates comfort in wearability. Willow works quietly tucked inside a bra, collects milk in an internal bag and tracks the volume through an app. It features a suction cup, and two other very small parts that are dishwasher safe. How convenient is that? The Willow works efficiently to empty the breast through the use of electric motors built within bra cups. The pump mimics infant suckling and adequately empties each breast. It senses your letdown and automatically transitions to expression phase based on your body’s own unique milk production and timing. Milk is expressed into a bag located

WILLOW BREAST PUMP

breastfeed as easily and conveniently as

inside the cup, and each storage bag is

We all know the multiple health benefits

possible. Unfortunately, the pumps can be

marked to denote the quantity of breast-

of a mother’s milk to her baby. In fact, the

cumbersome, loud, and at times, rather

milk pumped. When the cups are opened,

American Academy of Pediatrics recom-

uncomfortable. Thankfully, a new pump

they will easily disassemble, allowing

mends: “exclusive breastfeeding for about

is trying to change all that.

moms to remove the bags to be frozen or

the first six months of a baby’s life, fol-

The Willow Breast Pump is a new

stored in the refrigerator for the next feed-

lowed by breastfeeding in combination

medical device that is being marketed as

ing. It’s so very convenient! Learn more at

with the introduction of complementary

an ultra-durable, super convenient, hands-

willowpump.com.

foods until at least 12 months of age, and

free breast pump. It fits discreetly inside

continuation of breastfeeding for as long

your bra and works quietly while you go

NEW AMSTERDAM GENOMICS

as mutually desired by mother and baby.”

about your day. It is the first cord-free,

Genetic testing is rapidly becoming main-

But in our modern world there are

wearable, smart breast pump. The found-

stream, changing how we view preventive

times when breastfeeding is just not prac-

er and CTO of Willow, John Chang, told

medicine and how physicians practice

tical. Breast pumps were developed and

CNN the pump was inspired by his wife

medicine. Each of us has our own unique

touted as devices to help busy moms

and three kids, and he hopes it helps more

DNA makeup that controls all major

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bb&s aspects of body functions, from metabolism and disease risk to eye color. Knowing your own DNA may transform how you can stay healthy, allowing you to proactively prevent diseases to which you may be predisposed due to certain DNA patterns. One company, New Amsterdam Genomics, offers advanced technological systems of thorough DNA testing of more than 22,000 genes. They then cross-reference your DNA with more than 100,000 healthrelated findings. This allows physicians to evaluate extensive data about your genetic code, indicating your health status, ancestral history, and your predisposition to numerous DNA-related illnesses. Imagine knowing yourself at the molecular level. In the past the cost to document a person’s genetic code was more than $100,000 dollars. Today’s approximate $2,500 price tag is still steep, but as technology advances the cost will likely continue to drop. I predict we will soon see this type of testing as common as a blood cholesterol test. What makes New Amsterdam Genomics testing so brilliant is the fact that it detects so many potential conditions and susceptibilities that can affect a person’s health and life. Testing allows physicians to detect the presence of genetic dispositions to developing certain illnesses including many types of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative illnesses including dementia and Parkinson ’s disease, and numerous other chronic or rare conditions. It may also tell you what medications, dosing, diet or exercise may be best for you based on your genetic makeup. Furthermore, the testing may be able to inform people if they are capable of passing various serious illnesses to their offspring. Learn more at nagenomics.com.

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K’TRACK GLUCOSE AND K’TRACK ATHLETE PKvitality has brought us what may become

K’Track Athlete

the best accomplishment in human health this year. PKvitality’s two new medical breakthroughs provide painless, instantaneous, blood-free glucose and lactic acid monitoring. No more finger pricks! A stylish wristband watch, K’Track Glucose continuously screens your glucose levels in real time. Under the screen of the band is a sensor unit known as K’apsul that utilizes a biosensor, which when in contact with the skin can test glucose levels without a blood sample. The device may be synchronized with smartphones and can be customized to include reminders, alerts and trends. You can see instantaneously how certain foods, exercise and stress impact your blood sugar and lactic

intensity without setting themselves up

acid levels.

for injury while also diminishing the over-

K’Track Athlete is the world’s first

all experience of fatigue.

lactic acid screener intended to permit

K’Track Athlete can be worn as an arm-

athletes and coaches to maximize fitness

band and can be programmed to take regu-

levels without encountering pain from

lar lactic acid readings during a workout at

excessive lactic acid build-up. Your lactic

the press of a button. No need to pause your

acid threshold is reached when lactic acid

training or exercise to check. Once syn-

begins to build in excess in the blood at a

chronized with its devoted applications, the

faster rate than it can be eliminated from

device can analyze your performance. Lac-

the body. Lower levels of fatigue and

tic acid concentrations can be shared with

weakness can be sustained by making

your trainer to evaluate and achieve opti-

sure the training intensity is at or under

mal levels to boost performance.

this limit.

These devices are being thoroughly

Understanding your lactic acid limit is

tested for quality assurance and will soon

pivotal for acquiring endurance for sus-

be available to the public once medical

taining intense sporting activities. Most

certifications have been completed. So

sporting activities produce high levels of

2017 continues to impress with scientific

lactic acid when carried out for a long

breakthroughs to allow us to live healthier

period of time, such as cycling, interval

and happier. Enjoy!

training and 400m+ running. Now athletes will have a chance to degrade lactic acid

Dr. Deborah Harding is board certified in

levels over a longer period of time and will

internal, sleep disorder and anti-aging

be mindful of recovery between training

medicine. The Harding Medical Institute is

sessions. Physically unstable athletes will

located in MetroWest. Learn more at

benefit from training exactly at the correct

hardingmedicalinstitute.com.

bb&s

YMD Expands Space and Offerings YMD Eye & Face, the laser and plastic surgery center located in the Douglas Grand on Morse Boulevard in Winter Park, recently expanded its modern and patient friendly facilities, allowing for more in-office services. Medical Director Dr. Ruth Hill Yeilding specializes in facial plastic surgery, including laser eyelid lifts, and is board certified in ophthalmology and facial cosmetic surgery. The expansion includes a new procedure room where certain treatments can be performed on-site instead of at an off-site surgical facility. YMD is also now offering medical grade facials and peels such as the Brightening Facial and Illuminize Peel, which effectively reduces appearance of skin discoloration and creates a more even, brighter skin tone. In addition, patients can receive in-depth skin care consultations and can be prescribed a regimen based on Dr. Yeildingâ€™s recommendations. For more information, visit yeildingmd.com.

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tastes &experiences

Who doesn’t love brunch? The DoveCote brunch menu includes a variety of dishes as well as coffee crafted by the on-site barista and unlimited glasses of rosé for $15 a person. Served from 10:30am to 2:30pm, guests can bite into signature items like the brioche French toast, Croque Madame (ham, gruyère cheese, mornay sauce and sunnyside up egg) or chicken and sausage cassoulet (cranberry beans, chicken confit, pork sausage and breadcrumbs). The restaurant is located downtown in the Bank of America building (the former Harvey’s for those who remember). 56

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t&e

La Luce: THE LEGACY LIVES ON by Christi Ashby

Since opening in 2009 — hard to believe it’s been 8 years — the Bonnet Creek Resort that’s home to the Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek has been known for engaging locals in its culinary scene. And it is very gratifying to see that continuing, especially at La Luce with the ongoing commitment to preserving and forwarding the legacy of founding Chef Donna Scala who passed in 2014.

orangeappeal.com

The staff clearly feels her presence, and so

rating foods, it was well worth the calories.

do diners. A fitting tribute is one of the

The Duo Dolci included a Cannolo

chalk panels that never changes. It was

Sialiano with chocolate chips and the But-

drawn from a photo Donna had on her

terscotch Pudding with a sizeable piece of

phone depicting an idyllic view of her Vespa

house-made toffee. I would have eaten

resting in the California wine country.

them separately but our server urged us to

Both a chef and restauranteur, Donna,

dip the candy into the fluffy, creamy dish.

whose grandfather owned several restau-

As we grazed through the hours, we

rants, studied in the South of France before

were impressed with the low-key décor,

returning to the San Francisco area. She

the highly-trained chefs, servers and staff,

opened several successful establishments

and the open pizza oven where kids can

based on Italian dishes. Her concept for

make their own creations. We loved learn-

Orlando, La Luce, was very well received and her touch was everywhere. Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria Orlando Managing Director Peter Kacheris recalled an early encounter when guests were kept waiting quite some time for pizzas. He found out Donna had thrown them all out because they weren’t right. She had discovered the culprit — the wrong flour — and quickly rectified the situation. Many of the staff, including

Chef

Cuisine

Alberto

Navarrete Arias, trained and worked with Chef Donna and have maintained her exacting standards. We were privileged to dine at La Luce to preview the signature item served at the 25th Annual Chef’s Gala to benefit Heart of Florida United Way. But we experienced much, much more than the delicious Polpete di Agnelo (a lamb meatball with fregola ragu, eggplant, tomato and

Stracciatella cheese), starting with a proper tour of the space including anecdotes. First, a craft cocktail was in order, so we selected Old Tom’s Flight made with

ing more about the lady behind the dishes and hearing from those carrying on her mission of creating traditional Italian fare with a Napa influence.

an aged gin, maraschino and blackberry liqueur, and lemon juice. A special menu created for the evening started with a fritto misto that included a nice addition of onions and green beans with a spicy aioli. We ordered a bottle of the light, crisp Antinori Vermentino. Before we finished the appetizers, which also included Olive Fritte, fried Spanish olives with Marcona almonds, we were joined by Peter and Suzanne Stephan, director of marketing and public relations for the resort. Peter insisted we try some newer menu items in addition. Since it would not be polite to refuse, we indulged in a small slice of the BLT pizza and a bite of Lasagne ai Funghi with spinach, wild mushrooms, béchamel and truffle cheese. They were perfect conversation accompaniments and as they bid us good evening, the entrée arrived. The Risotto del Giorno (of the day) featured a duck leg confit, zucchini, leeks, sweet drop peppers, Reggiano and aged balsamic. Since we could not even think of

La Luce

finishing, our server promptly boxed up

Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek

one of the entrées for us to take home. But

14100 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane

when dessert arrived, I could not resist

Orlando 32821

and as I say to a good friend of mine when

407-597-3600 | laluceorlando.com

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t&e everything you need to know about

EARLS KITCHEN + BAR In the space that was formerly Blue Martini at The Mall at Millenia is a new, inviting and refreshing restaurant that is perfect for a pre- or post-shopping bite, business meeting (we’ve already had several there), leisurely lunch or Sunday brunch, date night, late night or happy hour gathering. Here’s the scoop.

created in canada Not be confused with local, well-known restaurateur Robert Earl (Planet Hollywood), Earls Kitchen + Bar is actually a concept out of Canada. Founded by Montana native Leroy Earl (Bus) Full in 1982 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Earls is one of North America’s most successful independent restaurant groups, currently with 68 locations. “It really started out as a very casual burger and beer place,” explains General Manager Stefan Oostveen. “They took some patio furniture from one of their old family restaurants and it was kind of kitschy and cheesy and it’s just evolved into what it is now.”

diverse dishes Earls eventually moved its headquarters to Vancouver, Canada, where top Canadian chefs collaborate in a test kitchen to come up with new menu items. “We have

a very talented group that works together and has all their different influences,” Stefan says. That’s why you’ll see everything on the menu from burgers and steaks, to sushi and rice bowls, to pasta and salads. And Earls is committed to fresh, made from scratch, often local ingredient driven dishes. On a recent visit, we sampled some of the newer items, including Avocado Super Toast, smashed avocado on olive oil toasted baguette, garnished with confit tomato and sriracha drizzle; Warm Kale Salad, black kale, baby potatoes, roasted

craft beer selections and an outstanding,

Brussel sprouts, cranberries and toasted

value- and variety-packed wine list. And

almonds, in brown butter vinaigrette with

with so many great food and drink options,

grilled chicken; and the Dynamite Roll,

Earls makes it easy to try them all with

shrimp, mango and avocado sushi, sriracha

daily specials, like half price all bottles of

mayonnaise, black sesame, unagi maple.

wine and $3 off sushi rolls on Tuesdays, and early (3-6pm) and late happy hours

elevated libations

(9pm – close), Monday through Friday,

Serving a variety of classic cocktails with

throughout the entire restaurant (not just

a twist, Earls updates them through fresh

in the lounge).

ingredients

and

fun

glassware.

For

instance, the traditional Bees Knees, with

inviting atmosphere

aviation gin, Cointreau, honey, fresh lem-

Starting from humble beginnings, as

on and angostura bitters, is presented in a

Stefan explained, Earls has evolved its

honey bear shaped glass with a honey dip-

décor and atmosphere to a casual elegance

per stirrer.

that entertains any type of outing. Upon

“We really elevated our cocktail pro-

entering, guests can step into the lounge,

gram to match our food program — made

featuring a large bar and lots of seating

from scratch, in-house,” Stefan says. Alco-

options, from high tops to communal

holic and non-alcoholic beverages are crafted

tables, or they can head up the ramp to the

with fresh-squeezed juices and house-made

vibrant multi-level dining room, offering

syrups with nothing artificial.

views of the action in the open kitchen.

Earls’ also features local and regional 60

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Toward the back of the dining room is

another more intimate bar and prep area with surrounding seating that can serve as a semi-private function space. And a sleek patio provides al fresco dining, perfect for people watching mall shoppers. Art is an important design element for Earls and each location highlights local artists with works inspired by the locale. The Mall at Millenia location features iconic Florida photographs from Brian Soderlind and a huge mural entitled “Juice Birds,” hand-drawn using paint pens, by Andrew Spear that pays homage to Orlando’s orange groves and Earls’ history with parrot motifs. Earls is open for lunch through late night (hours vary) daily and early (10am) for brunch on Sundays, and offers complimentary valet parking.

EARLS KITCHEN + BAR The Mall at Millenia 4200 Conroy Rd., Orlando 32839 407-345-8260 | earls.ca

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t&e

BITS & BITES

DELICIOUS NEW EATERIES A RETURNING FOODIE FAVORITE A new concept has opened in the space that was previously The Ravenous Pig, which has moved to a larger location (the former Cask & Larder site). Inspired by classic Florida fish camps, Reel Fish Coastal Kitchen + Bar offers a wide variety of seafood from the Sunshine State’s Atlantic and Gulf coasts in a contemporary family-friendly atmosphere. The menu features a rotating selection of seasonally available fresh fish and fish camp classics, such as Shrimp & Creamy Cheese Grits, served in generous portions. “We couldn’t be more excited to open Reel Fish Coastal Kitchen + Bar in Winter Park, a community with a thriving local culinary scene,” says owner Fred Thimm. “The restaurant is a white-washed remake of classic Southern fish camps offering a beachy setting where guests can enjoy sustainable seafood, boutique wines, craft beer and creative cocktails.” Finally, the Maitland spot on 17-92 that housed Steak & Ale for many, many years has opened as Luke’s Kitchen and Bar. It’s been remodeled and the much-needed update has opened up and lightened the space that included an outdoor patio. Created by the team — including Chef Brandon McGlamery — that brought us Luma on Park and Prato — Luke’s looks to be another hot spot for the area. On the south end of Park Avenue, Maestro Cucina Napoleltana & Pizza is now serving up traditional cuisine from the Campania region of Italy. Co-owners Rosario Spagnolo and Antoinio Martino are not only longtime local restauranteurs, but also grew up together in Naples. And it’s back… 5 Chefs, 5 Courses, 5 Charities at The Alfond Inn will showcase five of Central Florida’s favorite chefs preparing their signature courses with proceeds going to their

5 Chefs, 5 Courses, 5 Charities

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designated charities on Sunday, March 12 at 5:30pm. The family-style, farm-to-table dinner will be accompanied by live music and fine spirits. For tickets, visit thealfondinn.com.

home & design The 2017 New American Home, designed and built by Phil Kean Design Group, showcases the latest green and sustainable building materials, products, energy efficiencies and construction methods in order to reduce its impact on the environment and provide the highest quality of life for the occupants. The 8,245-sq.-ft. podstyle home in Lake Nona was featured at the NAHB International Buildersâ€™ Show in Orlando. All the highlights and details will be featured in the next edition of Interior Appeal.

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h&d

Anti-Trend Defines the Latest Looks in Kitchens and Baths WHAT’S NEW and WHAT’S NEXT from KBIS 2017 by Karen LeBlanc

n fashion, a common faux pas is to look like a “try-hard”— someone forcing a style or persona with great effort and ill effect. The same holds true for home interiors, which explains why the latest trend in kitchen and bath style is to look like you aren’t following trends at all. At Design & Construction Week 2017, comprised of the twin trade shows Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) and NAHB International Builders’ Show, held in Orlando this past January, this anti-trend aesthetic had a common stylistic thread — no-show style. Think hidden toilet tanks; power outlets disguised in drawers and vanity cabinets; stealth storage and handle-less cabinetry. This disappearing act in the home is propelling new collections of products and appliances that seem to hide in plain sight.

Silestone

At the show, I attended a news conference held by the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s (NKBA) K+B Insiders who revealed their top trends in design, colors and products for the kitchen and bathroom. The resounding takeaway from their trend predictions is that contemporary-styled kitchens and baths continue their forward march into new construction and remodeling projects. “Key trends for 2017 show a stronger push toward contemporary or modern styling in the kitchen. Industrial influences including raw or natural elements are also gaining traction, particularly with more readily available aged or distressed looks. Eat-in kitchens that have a more open feel to them and that allow for adaptations to homeowners’ busy lifestyles will take as high of a priority as the exterior aesthetic does in deciding how to most efficiently use this space,” notes Stephanie Pierce, director of design and trends at MasterBrand Cabinets. For design aficionados, this popularity of contemporary and transitional styles is not a news flash. What is worth noting is how kitchens and baths are embracing color and materiality to create iterations of contemporary and transitional styles that follow their own muses rather than keeping up with the proverbial Joneses. Here are five design elements defining kitchen and bath style in 2017. 66

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MATTE FINISHES FOR SOFTER SPACES: Most major kitchen and bath surface companies debuted versions of matte finishes as an antidote to the glossy glare of ultramodern kitchens lacquered wall to wall. Perhaps matte’s moment is a pushback from the consumer wanting surfaces more subdued for softer, calmer spaces. Wilsonart debuted its new Ultra Matte Finish as a low-sheen option for stone looks in six new Wilsonart Laminate designs. Silestone by Cosentino launched its new Eternal Collection of quartz in seven colors available in a polished or suede finish, a soft, matte texture.

Poggenpohl

AUTOMOTIVE-INSPIRED FINISHES: Taking design cues from the automotive industry, German luxury kitchen manufacturer Poggenpohl debuted new chrome-plated, high-gloss lacquers in 14 metallic shades, including the on-trend champagne gold and petrol green. These mirror-like finishes mimic paints from the automotive industry and take high-gloss lacquer to the next level. For a dose of bling in the bathroom, some designers are using metallic grout in platinum, gold, bronze or copper to complement metallic tiles.

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h&d DESIGN IT YOUR WAY: Circling back to this anti-trend idea of expressing personal style, any product line that provides customization is a big hit in the marketplace. Customizable products that caught my attention include Atlas Homewares new Tableau Collection of hardware that encourages the mixing and matching of two shapes, round or square, and four finishes within four different sizes for custom horizontal or vertical configurations. The collection also dovetails perfectly with the mixed metals design technique — pairing nickel with brass and gold, black and chrome, or polished chrome with champagne gold. Design experts recommend working with two or three finishes to pull off the look. Aim for one dominant finish and

Zephyr

use smaller amounts of secondary metals to accent it.

BLACK STAINLESS STEEL: Step aside stainless steel, a darker version is the new “it” finish in kitchen appliances. Black stainless steel is showing up in the latest kitchens, from the fridge to the dishwasher. Frigidaire Gallery launched a new suite of smudge-proof black stainless steel appliances at KBIS. The eight products include refrigerators, dishwashers, wall ovens, gas ranges and over-the-range microwaves.

Ruvati

Other standout products include Zephyr’s black stainless steel ventilation range hoods made with titanium coating, and Sharp’s black stainless steel microwave drawer in a low-profile bold design. To match this metallic darkening of kitchen appliances, Amerock created a

For color customization in the kitchen, Ruvati debuted the Ibiza faucet that comes with three silicone sleeves that are interchangeable. Additional colors are available for purchase and include Ocean Blue, Navy Blue and Coral Pink. BlueStar appli-

new gunmetal finish

ances come in more than 750 colors and custom hues including

available in several

an oven in Pantone’s 2017 Color of the Year, Greenery, paired

of its new hardware

with white-painted knobs. In 2017, designer color choices in

collections including

kitchen products are in big demand by consumers wanting more

the farmhouse cup

creative freedom.

pulls in the Ashby line. Amerock

Atlas Homewares

Frigidaire

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BlueStar appliance in Pantone’s 2017 Color of the Year, Greenery

h&d TRI-TONED KITCHEN: White and gray continue to reign supreme

The 2017 NKBA Kitchen & Bath Design Trends Report noted some casualties in the style shift including the declining use of crown molding, vessel and pedestal sinks, whirlpool tubs and granite countertops. In their places: quartz surfaces, undermount and trough sinks, and free-standing tubs — products and materials that promote clean lines and unfussy style.

in kitchen and bath color palettes; however, they are joined by a third color in some of the latest looks. “Gray is the most popular kitchen color right now. I do like a balancing gray with soft, warmer neutrals in blue, sienna, pink and browns. Multiple colors on cabinets is a great way to achieve a polished and designer look in the kitchen. For example, painting a base cabinet in charcoal or deep navy and painting upper cabinets white or creamy tones is a favorite combination,” says Sue Wadden, director of color marketing, SherwinWilliams.

modern tri-toned kitchen that paired frameless cabinets in high-gloss marine

GREG RIEGLER

Wellborn Cabinet, Inc. showcased its new Aspire Cabinetry collection in a

Tri-toned kitchen by NKBA Member Cheryl Kees Clendenon, In Detail Interiors, Pensacola, FL

blue, snow oak with pine graining and matte graphite gray. The Aspire collection has no visible hardware and features coplanar doors that move to the side. It’s Sherwin-Williams Sea Salt

available in 30 different colors of decorative laminate in a choice of high gloss or matte finish as well as wood grains. Other

By nature, design trends start as novel ideas and once they reach critical mass, become clichés. Contemporary and transitional styles avoid being trendy if they speak to personal wants, needs and preferences. This authentic expression of style worries less about resale value and more about the quality of life in living spaces. It seems that the kitchen and bath designers are catching on and consumers are boldly breaking with conventional ideas of what constitutes “in style,” opting instead for “personal style.”

third tones joining the kitchen color mix include metal cabinets and blue- and black-toned cabinets, according to the NKBA Trend Report. Kitchens are also mixing countertop materials. Wilsonart’s Material Mixology design technique pairs laminate with quartz and solid surfaces.

Karen LeBlanc is host of The Design Tourist series. She travels the globe attending some of the world’s premiere design

Wellborn

events in search of the latest trends, tastemakers and unique finds. Learn more at thedesigntourist.com.

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Women Who

OWN It!

THESE LADIES IN CHARGE ARE DEDICATED, DILIGENT AND DARING. THEY RUN SUCCESSFUL COMPANIES FROM FAMILY-OWNED LEGACIES TO INNOVATIVE START-UPS. AND THEY ALL HAVE SOMETHING IN COMMON — THEY’RE DOING IT THEIR WAY. Interviews and photographs by

Christi Ashby 98

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Kimberly Lawton Koon

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU FACE?

CEO, LAWTON CONNECT

We are in a highly capitalized industry with print manufacturing.

Kimberly is the fifth generation of the Lawton family to lead the nation’s longest consecutively family-owned printing company — Lawton Connect. Lawton Connect is a certified woman-owned business through the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and a Women Owned Small Business (WOSB) by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Kimberly’s role as president includes overseeing all production and researching new technology solutions for clients. She was honored by the Orlando Business Journal with its prestigious Up and Comer award among the 2009 Women Who Mean Business. She was also recognized by the publication as one of the 2008 and 2013 40 Under 40 honorees. She is a member and past chair of the Printing Association of Florida board of directors and stays very involved in the graphic arts industry.

Keeping ahead of the curve with equipment and technology is costly.

WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? We have just debuted Benjamin Pop, an original line of greeting cards and paper gifts. For years, I have been wanting to create a printed product line of our own. So Benjamin Pop was born as a love project of Lawton Connect, which was founded in 1900 by Joseph Benjamin Lawton… our way of paying homage to our roots while celebrating the art of clean design with the craftsmanship of fine printing.

HOW DO YOU UNWIND AT THE END OF THE DAY? I love to unwind at the end of the day with a glass of wine while cooking dinner. There is something therapeutic about cooking after a busy day. And I cherish family dinners!

Kimberly enjoys giving back to her community and sits on the boards of Florida Hospital SHARES International, Lake Silver Elementary Foundation, OCPS ESE Taskforce, and works with many other local organizations.

HOW DO YOU MOTIVATE YOURSELF AND STAY MOTIVATED? Goal setting keeps me on track and motivated. Growth in business or personal growth doesn’t just happen. By creating yearly goals with quarterly priorities, everything is less overwhelming and, therefore, more fun.

IF YOU HAD TO START OVER WHAT WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY? I wish that in the early years that I had more confidence in myself. I was young, and everyone around me made sure that I felt that way too. So instead of pulling the trigger faster, making decisions for the direction of the company, new equipment or new hires, I hesitated which then delayed our successes.

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Jennifer Quigley

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU FACE?

PRINCIPAL, WBQ DESIGN & ENGINEERING, INC.

I would say we have two challenges. One is constantly looking for

Jennifer and two colleagues left an engineering firm, where she was office and business manager, in 1994 to start their own company, WBQ Design and Engineering, Inc. As a principal in the firm, Jennifer is very proud that WBQ has worked on all the City’s big downtown projects — Amway Center, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and Camping World Stadium.

the next project and the second is staying at the forefront of new technology. It changes so quickly and is crucial to our industry.

Her passion for downtown and the arts is well known and she spends much of her time devoted to both. She has chaired the Downtown Development Board and the Community Redevelopment Agency for the City of Orlando, as well as the Downtown Arts District. She serves on the executive board of United Arts and leads the Orange County Cultural Arts Public Art Board. As chair of See Art Orlando, the public-private community project initiated by Mayor Buddy Dyer to add large public art sculptures around downtown, she oversaw the entire process from the initial concepts through fundraising, selection and installation.

HOW DO YOU MOTIVATE YOURSELF AND STAY MOTIVATED? It is so much easier to stay motivated when you love what you do. I completely enjoy working in the civil engineering industry. It is a great challenge to chase the projects, win the projects, and then to be sure you do the work with excellence. We have an amazing

WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

team that I totally enjoy working with and we try to keep the

There are three: My son and daughter are fantastic young adults

office fun and rewarding. I also have the privilege of donating my

and I’m incredibly proud of them. Secondly would be that my firm

time to the community in many different ways. The variety of it

has been part of the dynamic growth in our region. We had the

all keeps it interesting and motivating.

pleasure of working on all three venues [Amway Center, Camping World Stadium and Orlando City Soccer stadium] and the Dr. Phil-

IF YOU HAD TO START OVER WHAT WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY?

lips Center for the Performing Arts and are so proud of our role in the design of each of them. Third would be my contribution to the arts. I’m especially proud of the See Art Orlando sculptures.

I would have chosen my degree to be in engineering instead of finance. While I was in college there were not many women in the engineering field. Today, I am so pleased to have several great

HOW DO YOU UNWIND AT THE END OF THE DAY?

women who are engineers work for us. Part of my joy is to mentor

If I can manage it, I love to golf. If that is not possible, then I love

them and see them succeed.

going for a run and coming home to cook out and watch the sunset.

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Wendy J. Connor OWNER/PRESIDENT, TEAM TRUE Wendy is the fearless leader at Team TRUE — a family of businesses based in downtown Orlando that includes TRUE Marketing, The MEZZ, The Abbey and Shakers Bar Catering. TRUE Marketing houses a comprehensive marketing and public relations consulting team, graphic design department, social marketing strategy team, and full-service, in-house video production. The MEZZ and The Abbey are two of the area’s highly coveted event spaces, while Shakers Bar Catering offers fullservice bar catering with customizable packages to suit any event, large or small. In addition, Wendy is the vice chair of the Downtown Development board, president of the Thornton Park Main Street District board of directors, executive board member of New Hope For Kids, See Art Orlando board member, and serves on local organizing committees for the NCAA tournament, Wrestlemania and the Social Engagement Committee for the Orlando Economic Development Commission.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU FACE? Like most women, balancing all of the elements in my life can be a challenge. I want to put my heart, soul, time and energy into both my family and my job, which can be difficult and sometimes impossible. But I do try to give myself a break and remind myself that I’m doing the best I can. Sometimes I channel SNL’s Stuart Smalley and look in the mirror and say “you’re good enough, you’re smart enough, and doggone it, people like you.” (I don’t actually do that).

HOW DO YOU MOTIVATE YOURSELF AND STAY MOTIVATED?

WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

I feel incredibly blessed to do what I do. I work with an amazing

Definitely my kids — they are two bright, charming, hilarious lit-

team of people who are not only extremely talented but also so

tle people. Professionally I’m most proud of what we’ve been able

fun; my office is in Thornton Park so I have a beautiful view and

to build in Orlando. The Abbey and The MEZZ started out as raw

run into so many awesome people throughout my day. I have the

space and we had vision to build beautiful venues that would be

opportunity to experience so many creative works in our venues

open to all types of events and artistic expression. We’ve stayed

including amazing musicians, theatrical productions, artists and

true to our vision to give back to the community whenever we can;

celebrations. I wouldn’t want to be doing anything else so that is

we have donated our spaces for charities and arts groups since the

incredibly motivating.

day we opened, and helped these organizations raise funds for very deserving causes, which is extremely rewarding.

IF YOU HAD TO START OVER WHAT WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY?

HOW DO YOU UNWIND AT THE END OF THE DAY?

Probably nothing. I’ve never been afraid to take chances, but I’ve

In the event business you never really know when you are going

definitely made mistakes along the way. The missteps and mis-

to be home, so one night it could be 2am and the next it could be

takes helped get me to where I am today and without them, I’d be

dinnertime. On the “normal” nights I enjoy sitting down to din-

a different person in a different place. I’m at a place in life where I

ner with my family (my husband has become a great cook), and

can truly appreciate past failures. I’ve come to realize that those

then if I can coax the kids off the electronics, I love a good family

experiences have shown me that I can survive anything and come

game night. If I can’t, then I make myself a big bowl of popcorn,

out stronger on the other side which is an unbelievable feeling.

a Tito’s and soda, and binge watch something on Netflix.

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Trina Gregory-Propst

much more appreciated. I try daily to live without regret so taking

CHEF/OWNER, SE7EN BITES

laugh a little extra… all of these things make me happy to be right

After spending 17 years in the spa and beauty industry, Trina decided to pursue a different path so she enrolled in Valencia College’s hospitality program and earned associate degrees in culinary management, baking and pastry management, and restaurant management. She is now the founder and operator of Se7en Bites, a bakery and eatery where customers can enjoy made-fromscratch goodies like moon pies, chocolate Swiss rolls and salted caramel dark chocolate pecan pies. Nostalgic bites are her trademark which is no surprise considering she learned to cook and bake from her grandmother. In the past year she redesigned and quadrupled her space in the Milk District now serving up a standard menu of breakfast and lunch items, hot and cold brewed coffee, as well as a full complement of sweet treats. Trina prides herself on sourcing local, fresh ingredients when available. Se7en Bites also does catering and special-order desserts, and participates in local charity events. Her company name is very personal — after a significant weight loss Trina found that seven bites of each meal was all she could have so she makes sure each bite counts.

the extra time to thank someone, tell them you appreciate them, where I am and appreciate the journey that got me here.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU FACE? Right now the biggest challenge feels like finding the right amount of time to spend and be with my son. As our business is in a huge growth phase right now I don’t want to miss a thing in these young years — I am sure every mother who works must feel this way. I also want him to see my hard work pay off; he likes to bake with me so I try to make sure we do that often.

WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? I am most proud of our staff retention and the length of time the majority of our staff family has been with us. We value and appreciate them very much. I am also very proud of how much our “regulars” have become an extended type of family, creating an amazing community that rallies around our success. This means the world to us!

HOW DO YOU UNWIND AT THE END OF THE DAY? I am a sucker for foot massages and hot baths. I also love playing with my three cats... Mia, Thumbs and Falcor.

HOW DO YOU MOTIVATE YOURSELF AND STAY MOTIVATED? I am motivated and inspired by my family (actual and work). I strive daily to do and be my best for my family and my staff. Seeing them succeed and learn and grow makes me so proud. My son is a source of daily motivation to show him what dedication and passion for what you do daily looks like. And my wife motivates and challenges me to grow our business and stay true to finding personal time for myself and us as a couple even though we see each other daily while we work side by side.

IF YOU HAD TO START OVER WHAT WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY? I’m not sure I would change a thing. Even the lessons and sometimes rough spots have made this sweet spot we are in now so

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Summer Rodman

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU FACE?

CEO, AMAZON HOSE AND RUBBER COMPANY

Getting a 100-year-old business into the future while at the same

Summer was raised in the family business. Since 1919, Amazon Hose and Rubber Company has served the hydraulic and industrial markets in providing just-intime hose repair, custom assemblies and OEM products for a diverse client base. Today, Amazon is the leading provider for custom and innovative conveyance fabrication, repair and service, serving the industrial and hydraulic markets throughout Florida.

when no one was watching. Before dashboards and kick-off

time maintaining the traditions that got us through those years meetings, people enjoyed coming to work and serving customers and did so for a long, long time. We want to maintain that level of service as we continue to grow.

Summer’s grandmother was a strong and independent woman made even tougher through her takeover of Amazon after her husband’s death in 1973. She worked continuously until a massive stroke a month before her 90th birthday. Summer worked alongside her grandmother and learned firsthand the importance of basic business and instilling in her a strong commitment to employees, resourcefulness, and a feisty attitude. Summer became successor CEO in 2006 and has led the unprecedented growth of Amazon. As a certified womanowned business enterprise, she has a unique perspective in managing growth within a male-dominated industrial market.

HOW DO YOU MOTIVATE YOURSELF AND STAY MOTIVATED? I do a lot of journaling and planning to stay clear on my intentions in life and at work. Accepting the natural lulls, regrouping

WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

and refocusing is all part of the process as well as getting ready for

I’m most proud of the culture we’ve been able to maintain at

the next growth spurt. It usually just takes a trip or two out to the

Amazon. We have kept the ethos of a privately held, family-run

warehouse to get reengaged and remember what it’s all about.

business. Although I’m technically the only family member involved, after nearly 100 years, we’re family. We’ve been through

IF YOU HAD TO START OVER WHAT WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY? I probably would have formed a peer group earlier. I find working

a lot together and will continue to rise to greatness.

HOW DO YOU UNWIND AT THE END OF THE DAY?

through business issues with like-minded folks has really helped to

I like to socialize and keep in touch. So I’ll meet a friend for cof-

form my values and ultimately understand my own leadership

fee, take a Barre3 class or go to a local event or show. Laughing

style. Informal or formal groups like Vistage [leadership training and

with friends and talking about books and observations, some-

business coaching for CEOs] are a must, and the sooner the better.

thing other than work, always takes the edge off.

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Christy Scanlon PRESIDENT/COO, MASTERPIECE DESIGN GROUP Masterpiece Design Group is the true definition of a family business. Coming from two different design career paths, mother-daughter duo Carol Ratliff and Christy Scanlon joined forces in 1999 to form the company.

job” education from my father, CEO Adair Ratliff, who has taught me everything I know about running a successful company.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU FACE? The biggest challenge I face is staying ahead of the fluctuations that occur in the building industry. Having been through the roughest time in our company’s life

As president and COO, Christy not only oversees the day-to-day operations of Masterpiece Design Group, but also works closely with her design staff to ensure that quality, beauty and unique designs are always delivered.

with the 2008 housing recession, I have learned to be aware of the signs of looming financial issues so that I can try to keep one step ahead of

Well known throughout the builder and design community, Christy frequently contributes as a speaker on current design trends. Most recently, she has lectured at the Greater Orlando Builders Association (GOBA), Southeast Building Conference (SEBC), and both judged and spoke at the Best in American Living Awards (BALA).

what may come.

WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? My mother and I started this

HOW DO YOU MOTIVATE YOURSELF AND STAY MOTIVATED?

company almost 20 years

Above all, having passion for something motivates me. I have

four-person design firm to

ago out of our living room. To see Masterpiece grow from a

many things in my life that drive me forward, and interior design

one of the largest design

is one of them. I have learned throughout the years that there is

firms in the Southeast has been beyond a dream come true.

a detail of design in everything around us. Nothing excites me

Working with our team of talented designers to produce so many

more than being able to teach others.

amazing projects and happy customers is more than I could ever imagine. Another thing I am proud of is how fortunate I am to

Outside of work, I am motivated by my family. I have been

have had the opportunity to create this incredible company

incredibly blessed to be able to work every day with my husband,

alongside the people I love and trust the most, my family. My

Don. Together we have two beautiful children, Jacob, 10, and

mom and co-founder, Carol Ratliff, my father, Adair Ratliff, as

Rylie, 9. They keep me motivated because, although work is very

the company financial guru, and my husband, Don Scanlon, who

important to me, the health and success of my family is most

is beside me running the day-to-day operations and procurement

important. Last, I am so motivated by my incredible and talent-

division of the company.

ed staff. Each and every one of them has brought a unique gift to Masterpiece that has made us the successful company it is today.

HOW DO YOU UNWIND AT THE END OF THE DAY?

IF YOU HAD TO START OVER WHAT WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY?

Unwind… what’s that? No really, being a business owner creates

Thankfully there is not much I would change about the path I’ve

it’s just part of the job. My favorite way to unwind is spending

chosen, but if I had to pick one thing, it would be my education.

time with my family. Both my children are heavily involved in

Although my passion was in interior design, I would have com-

sports and I love to see them involved and happy. That brings me

bined it with a business degree. I was lucky to have had an “on the

joy and peace.

difficulties shutting off at the end of the day. It’s rare that I do not have work in my head or answer emails in the evening. I think

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givingback

Lending a Helping Hand FOR 29 YEARS, THE CENTRAL FLORIDA WOMEN’S LEAGUE AND ITS FOUNDATION HAS BEEN GIVING BACK TO THE ORLANDO COMMUNITY. THE MEMBERS, A HUNDRED-PLUS STRONG, ARE MISSION DRIVEN AND HAVE BIG HEARTS TO SUPPORT THOSE LESS FORTUNATE. YEAR AFTER YEAR WE COME TOGETHER WITH PROJECTS THAT MAKE US FEEL PROUD TO BE A MEMBER.

by Sue Goodwin, past president,

Central Florida Women’s League

CFWL members presenting a check before their evening of volunteering. Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida Vice President, Development, Greg Higgerson with Sue Goodwin, Pam Lively, Linda Cardilli and Melissa D'Orazio.

here have been a vari-

And the jam was surprisingly delicious.

Our love for children and education is

ety of projects — some

One of our bigger events included a dinner

paramount and we support them by

large and some small.

for the children at the Eatonville Boys and

awarding scholarships to young ladies

We have hosted a pizza

Girls Club. We had provided a grant for a

who are seniors in high school working to

party at the Russell

kitchen in their new building and wanted

pursue their dreams of attending college.

Home

Atypical

to prepare dinner for them to celebrate.

Through this effort we have the privilege

Children. Nothing is

for

What an exciting night! The children

of meeting some of the most talented,

more gratifying than

were so appreciative of their beautiful new

hardworking, bright students from the

home away from home.

Orlando area. They give us hope for the

seeing the faces of the residents light up because there is a party in their loving

Our most recent community outreach

future of this wonderful country. Our

home and friends to visit with them. With

was at the well-known, community-giving

scholarship awards total $430,000 — to

paintbrushes, shovels and picks in hand,

Second Harvest Food Bank. Forty volun-

158 deserving young women.

we have painted bike racks and spruced

teers convened in the boardroom for a recep-

What we have learned and seen over the

up the grounds at Mollie E. Ray Elemen-

tion to enjoy Second Harvest’s culinary

years is the love and commitment of the

tary School. What a difference a little

expertise [Catering for Good] and then the

people we have met and had the pleasure

paint makes and a few hours of yard work.

activity began. Our task for the evening was

of working with at the various charitable

Then there were the backpacks we stuffed

to bag garden-fresh Georgia sweet potatoes.

organizations in the area. They are the ones

with items for our vulnerable foster chil-

Competition was strong among the three

who give tirelessly to those less fortunate.

dren. The young people need so many per-

teams, and the camaraderie was wonderful.

sonal items in their transition. And we

Who would have known how fun it would

Central Florida Women’s League will be

remember our day at Harbor House where

be to pack 5,960 pounds of potatoes and that

presenting one of its signature fundraisers,

we sponsored a Valentine’s Day party for

would in turn provide 4,900 meals?

Taste of Windermere, on March 4 from 6-9pm

the children with clowns, face painting,

Besides our love for community service

balloons, candy, food and special gifts. It was

projects, there is another side where we

food samplings from participating restaurants,

a day of fun, free of stress and uncertainty.

donate hours and hours to fundraise, and

a large selection of wines from Dexter’s of

at The Grove at Isleworth. Enjoy gourmet

Many of our members recall visiting

then award grants to organizations to sup-

Windermere and vodka drinks by Tito’s

Health Central Park and spending the

port their efforts. Over our many years we

Handmade Vodka. For tickets or to learn

afternoon making strawberry jam with

have awarded a total of $2,243,300 to 81

more about Central Florida Women’s

the residents. The pictures are priceless.

locally-based charities.

League, visit cfwl.org.

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