Orange Appeal May/June 2017 by Orange Appeal

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may | june 2017

features 96

106

Elizabeth Hart: Renewed, Restored & Resilient As a single parent, the desire to spend more time with her son led the former WKMG meteorologist to create her own television show, Ready, Set, Renovate!, featuring local projects. Not only is all this complicated and challenging, but Elizabeth is also doing it on a very small budget. She sets up all the shoots, does her own hair and makeup, writes the copy and edits the final footage.

100 Decadent Desserts Special occasions and celebrations call for spectacular treats. And we discovered these delicious dishes at area resorts that are known for their culinary skills. From Everglades’ Executive Pastry Chef Stefan’s Pecan Tuile to Four Seasons Resort Orlando Executive Pastry Chef Rabii Saber’s Black Bottom Peanut Butter Pie, these taste tempters are worth the trip.

106 A Military Mom’s Journey Maxine Reyes is the author of the soon-to-be-released books entitled The Courageous and Graceful Life: Army Officer, Army Wife and The Happily Joint Guide To Making KATHLEEN KENT PHOTOGRAPHY

Happiness Last, a book she co-wrote with her husband of 19 years. She shares her story of her decision to have a child while serving her country and the joy it has brought her.

on the cover: Elizabeth Hart photographed at All In One Decorating Solutions by Christi Ashby. Story on page 96.

may | june 2017

columns 16

10 THE LIST

People, places and things: The story of Cinderella in the Orlando Ballet’s reimagined staging from renowned choreographer Val Caniparoli; Fashion trends from Continuum and Bloomingdale’s; Lifestyle designers visit The Grove for a meet-and-greet; Stacie Rathel’s Darling Clutch Co.; Women to Watch: Dana Marie Roquemore and Laura Youngkin combine their skills and passion for a special dinner party; The Orlando Women’s Conference featured more than 30 dynamic speakers; Special remembrances for the first anniversary of the Pulse tragedy.

38 BEAUTY, BODY & SPIRIT

Aromatherapy and scents can sooth the soul; Dr. Dimitry Palceski debunks common skin cancer myths; Dr. Deborah Harding explains the virtues of vitamin D in strengthening bone and brain health as well as the immune system; Bonnie Pierce and Tammy Smith offer advice for getting your body beach ready with realistic expectations.

50 TASTES & EXPERIENCES

Pearson’s Café lures in customers with homemade treats and dishes; Downtown area restaurants known for their palate-pleasing brunches with carving stations, made-to-order omelets, endless mimosas, and even live entertainment are perfect recipes for an enjoyable weekend meal.

58 HOME & DESIGN

Beautiful blooms add an elegant touch to your table when celebrating sweet seasonal events; Karen LeBlanc visits the 2017 Architectural Digest Design Show and reports the trends from this carefully curated presentation of luxury brands, artists, designers and makers in an alternate narrative to mainstream ideas about design and decorating.

66 AGENDA

54 24

Community and charity events: The 7th annual Orlando Women’s Conference; Orlando Ballet’s tribute to Harriett Lake, The Best of Broadway; The Morning Star School Fashion Luncheon; The Mennello Museum Gala at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando; Easter Seals’ A Pair To Remember at The Mall at Millenia; Opera Orlando’s Valentine’s event; and more.

112 GIVING BACK

Almost 80 years ago the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando (PAGO) opened its doors as the Orlando Humane Society, Inc. Since that September day long ago, the agency has merged two humane societies, added veterinary clinics and adopted more than 780,000 dogs and cats.

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. 2

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Happy Mother’s Day! IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE IT’S BEEN SIX MONTHS (seven months when you read this) since

born that day whether I was ready or not.

I gave birth to my son, Benjamin Warner Slentz. He

I had everything I needed before we headed

was born via cesarean section at 10:05am on October

to the hospital.

14 at Winter Park Memorial Hospital.

I settled in and took my time making sure

From paperwork and bloodwork to con-

My journey began when my water broke at 38

tractions and vitals, it was a whirlwind as

weeks. After the initial shock and panic, an eerie

nurses and doctors prepped me for surgery.

calm came over me as the realization of what was

We knew a cesarean was necessary since

happening sunk in. This was it… he was going to be

Benjamin was breech, but I was not on the schedule for almost another two weeks! I got a visit from my doctor and my parents before I headed back. Nervous because I had never had surgery of any kind, the anesthesiologist and nurses kept me calm before my husband could join me in the OR. The process was relatively quick and before I knew it I was holding my baby boy in my arms! We were separated only for a few minutes as I was closed up and taken to the post-op room. From there, it was a three-day blur in the hospital as I healed from surgery, navigated breastfeeding and got very little shut eye. We were very well taken care of by our nurses and hospital staff and were even treated to a special dinner from Ruth’s Chris, thanks to the marketing team at Florida Hospital. Since leaving the hospital we have been figuring it out ever since — there have been many sleepless nights; a roller coaster of emotions; and a lot of times we asked ourselves, “Are we doing this right?” I’m not sure there is a correct answer to that question but we have thoroughly enjoyed watching Benji develop and grow. It has definitely been the most challenging time in my life but also the time of which I’m most proud — from caring for my infant son to publishing three issues of the magazine and producing the Orlando Women’s Conference. I want to wish all the moms and soonto-be moms a Happy Mother’s Day! It is amazing what we can accomplish! – Kate Slentz Assistant Publisher & New Mom Follow us on

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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&#x20AC;&#x2122;Shea BUSINESS MANAGER

Robert Ashby CONTRIBUTORS

Stephen Bardy Deborah Harding, MD Victor Harding, MD Dimitry Palceski, MD Bonnie Pierce, CPT, RYT Maxine Chang Reyes Anna Sibilrud-Willis Tammy Smith, RN, CPT PHOTOGRAHER

Kathleen Kent 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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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.

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Once upon a time, there was a creative choreographer who turned the enchanting story of Cinderella into a vibrant, 1950s mix of ballet and jazz, inspiring all of the kingdom to attend and see everyone dance and live happily ever after. A Cinderella Story is the visually stunning brainchild of renowned choreographer Val Caniparoli, whose unusual take on one of the world’s most popular fairy tales has resulted in one of the world’s most popular modern ballets. Orlando Ballet will perform this unique tale Friday, May 5 through Sunday, May 7 at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Val Caniparoli’s A Cinderella Story was inspired by the 1957 televised version of Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, which starred Julie Andrews. Dancing in satin heels and retro, haute couture costumes designed by Sandra Woodall, Orlando Ballet’s dancers will blend ballet and jazz based on themes by Richard Rogers as arranged by Canadian jazz band leader Ron Paley. Central Florida Community Arts’ popular Big Band will perform live, providing the distinctive, bold music arranged specifically for this ballet. Tickets are available online at drphillipscenter.org, by calling 844-513-2014, or in person at the box office, located at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. 10

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MICHAEL CAIRNS

the

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Bloomingdale’s Public Relations Manager Jennifer Bentson and Bloomindale’s Visual and Merchandising Manger Leanne Connon

A fashion

N O I T U L EVO Photos by 106Foto

The Mall at Millenia and Jennifer Bentson, public relations manager for Bloomingdale’s Orlando, showed how to design a wardrobe complementing all aspects of a professional woman’s life as she adapts, advances and evolves at the recent 2017 Orlando Women’s Conference.

Left: INSPIRATION: Boardroom to brunch — modern ruffles that infuse energy and motion into your look and catch major air as you walk down the street. All Saints biker jacket in burnt coral; BCBGMAXAZRIA multi-colored pleated skirt and peplum top; Stuart Weitzman ankle strap heels with pear detailing Right: INSPIRATION: business meetings don’t have to be boring — a modern take on a pantsuit. BCBGMAXAZRIA cape blazer, printed top and wide-leg dress pant; Marc Fisher navy pumps

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thelist Below left: INSPIRATION: Mixing trends into your work wardrobe â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the reworked shirt, no longer all business; the classic menswear-inspired shirt is completely reimagined as an utterly feminine and infinitely versatile wardrobe centerpiece. All Saints army green suit jacket; Sandro white blouse; All Saints joggers; Kate Spade New York leather crossbody; Baublebar earrings Below center: INSPIRATION: Mixing trends into your work wardrobe â&#x20AC;&#x201D; soft tailoring with a pajama silhouette. All Saints top; BCBGMAXAZRIA paisley-print pants; Coach pumps in white; AQUA statement necklace

A fashion

EVOLUTION

Above: INSPIRATION: Feminine and polished with workweek staples. Ted Baker floral pants; Hobbs blouse; Sandro peplum jacket; Marc Fisher block-heel pumps; Baublebar earrings

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BOLDER SHOULDER Left: Milly Eden top, $245; Virgins, Saints and Angels (VSA) Magdalena necklace, $245; VSA cross necklace, $295; Shiraleah Lee hobo, $76

Milly Blythe top, $325; Milly Cady skirt, $265; Kendra Scott Harlow necklace; $195; Kendra Scott Danielle earrings, $65; Joie Agata sandal, $288; Shiraleah Kaityln wristlet, $42

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Trina Turk Coctel lace dress, $187; Kendra Scott Isabella necklace, $175; Kendra Scott Aryssa earrings, $195; Shiraleah wristlet, $42

The off-the-shoulder fashion trend continues in 2017 and it was on full display at a special fashion presentation by Continuum in Lake Mary for the 55th Annual Morning Star Catholic School Auxiliary Fashion Show and Luncheon held at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

Trina Turk Amaris dress, $298; Kendra Scott Alyssa earrings, $85; Kendra Scott Nemera gold necklace, $105

Tibi Sinapis off-shoulder top, $295; Joeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Roxanne ankle jeans, $169; VSA Luxe wrap necklace, $326; VSA gold Milagrosa cuff, $294

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BOLDER SHOULDER

Counterclockwise from top left: Milly Leslie top, $320; 7 for all Mankind ankle jeans, $178; Kendra Scott Emma earrings, $140; Kendra Scott Lucas necklace, $130 Tibi off-shoulder midi dress, $450; Kendra Scott Wylie gold strand necklace, $165 Trina Turk Chill dress, $248; Virgins, Saints and Angels Magdalena pearl necklace, $306; See By Chloe Susie leather crossbody bag, $495 Trina Turk Seleste cold-shoulder sweater, $198; Rebecca Taylor slim pant, $295; Kendra Scott Renee earrings, $80; Beaucoup stone necklace, $44 Trina Turk Poinciana dress, $398; Joie Adriana ankle strap sandals, $278 Available at Continuum, 1210 S. International Pkwy., Suite 170, Lake Mary.

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DESIGNED FOR A

Lovely Life Meredith Gardner and Emily

Williams, owners of The Grove, recently hosted some of their featured designers at their Winter Park store for a trunk show and meet-and-greet.

Brooke Wright, Julianne Taylor, Emily Williams, Alden Hawkins, Meredith Gardner and Roxy Te Owens

JULIANNE TAYLOR

Founder, Taylor Burke Home, and author of designHER ulianneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design business grew out of an overseas life as she followed her husbandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s career to Melbourne, Barcelona, Shanghai and Seoul. She had degrees in interior design and human resources and had previously worked in both fields, but found a new career as a designer to expats in the coun-

tries she called home. While in Shanghai, she discovered local factories and began designing custom furnishings for her clients. Meanwhile in Seoul, she decided to launch her own company from her dining room table and debuted her first collection at AmericasMart in 2012. By 2015, Julianne opened a permanent showroom in the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center. Since then she has found partnering with other design companies enhances her showrooms and provides a better experience for customers by showing them how to incorporate items into their own rooms. It was meeting and being influenced by other women in the business that encouraged her to write the coffee-table book, designHER. It is filled with beautiful photographs and the inspiring stories of entrepreneurs. Taylor Burke Home, based in Charlotte, NC, includes furniture featuring fretwork, tufting and other interesting details; pendant lighting and lamps; and upholstered pieces that are traditional with a twist. (taylorburkehome.com)

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ALDEN HAWKINS Founder, Duende

aunched in January 2015, Duende is the resource for luxuriously made tuxedo slippers designed and embroidered to order. Alden wanted to create a loafer that was as durable as it was beautiful. Based in Boston with a factory in Spain, the bespoke shoes are available in more than 50 textiles and 30 trims — and that’s before the monogram or motif is embroidered. Tassels and horse bits are also options. The

classic, timeless style makes these slippers a fit for any age or lifestyle. (shopduende.com)

ROXY TE OWENS

Founder, Society Social ith her signature bright colors and hefty dose of whimsy, it’s no wonder Roxy’s clients are clamoring for her line of prod-

ucts. Designed with entertaining in mind, the vintage-inspired bar carts and playful furnishings would be very much at home in Florida. Her business actually got its start when friends admired her wellstocked bar cart at a time when they were not readily available. Her company, launched in 2011, found an early following via social media networks and now features a variety of sofas, lounge and accent chairs, ottomans, tables, headboards, pillows, mirrors, lamps and lighting, rugs, case goods, wallpaper, trays, fabric, art, gift items, and, of course, bar carts — one of which is a collaboration with Lilly Pulitzer. (societysocial.com)

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BROOKE WRIGHT

Founder, Brooke Wright Designs atercolor illustrations incorporated into designs and textiles are the hallmark of Brooke’s company. For the fashion-focused, items include espadrilles, skirts, tops, bags and clutches. For the home, there are fabrics and pillows — coming soon are dog beds and poufs. Art, custom art, invitations, gift wrap,

stationery and card designs are also available. The patterns range from zebra, cheetah and elephant motifs to florals, fruits and Palm Beachy prints. (funkywrightdesigns.com)

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carry your art:

DARLING CLUTCH CO.

ESIGNER STACIE RATHEL

pieces for clients that are very

thinks you can start a conver-

personalized. Familiar places are

sation without saying a word

among the themes she employs,

by carrying one of her hand-

and the thoughtful embellish-

crafted box clutches. “Design-

ments — beaded handles and

ing stylish, yet warm, inviting wearable

beautiful trims — enhance the

art pieces is my passion. Vintage art with

vintage art.

Stacie Rathel

touches of contemporary style inspires

Most of the clutches are built

me. I love to blend old with new — classic

on cigar boxes that Stacie col-

with modern,” she says.

lects from all over. Unusually shaped ones

is to have your statement ‘heard,’” she explains.

We recently discovered her fun, fashion-

are among her favorites. “Each one is

able purses and totes at the Spa Invitational

thoughtfully designed to stand out and get

In addition to clutches, Stacie crafts

and the Orlando Women’s Conference,

you noticed naturally — it’s not about pre-

totes in similar whimsical designs. You

where she explained her process and the

tension. They are meant to draw your

can view and purchase items at Adjectives

elements she uses. And although many of

attention, not demand it. To provoke a

Market in Winter Park Village or darling-

the designs feature similar art, they are all

response — a thought, admiration, smile,

clutch-company.myshopify.com.

one of a kind. Stacie also creates custom

compliment, or perhaps a conversation —

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WOMEN TO WATCH

NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF TWO FORCES COLLIDING IN COLLABORATION — BOTH ON A MISSION TO BRING WOMEN TOGETHER FOR MEANINGFUL CONVERSATION IN A DINNER PARTY SETTING. AND THAT SETTING? THE BALCONY ORLANDO, A VENUE WITH VIEWS OF DOWNTOWN, BEAUTIFULLY ARRANGED TABLES, SPECIALTY COCKTAILS, AN EARLY EVENING SUNSET, AND LOTS AND LOTS OF BUZZING. THIS WAS ALL BEFORE THE FIRST COURSE HAD EVEN BEEN SERVED.

BOLD & BRAVE: Women

Lead Orlando by Christi Ashby

HE DINNER, WOMEN

project. “But I came back to frustration. I

Party Project via social media. “I had no

LEAD ORLANDO, is the

had no money and no job — no real next

idea if anyone was going to come. And

brainchild of Dana Marie

steps for something I wanted to do. I

now, two and a half years later, we are

Roquemore, founder of The

wasn’t feeling inspired,” she adds.

coming up on 300 dinners and have con-

Dinner Party Project, and

Fortunately, a friend happened to ask

nected thousands of people. The locations

Laura Youngkin, founder of The Brave

her what brought her joy and she realized

and multi-course meals are different —

Millennial, who wanted a different way to

if she could do anything she would throw

sometimes at a restaurant and sometimes

connect leading women of all ages in a rel-

dinner parties for a living. “I love food,

in someone’s home. We also do some larg-

evant fashion.

drink, people and gathering around a

er community events a couple of times a

Dana, who has been in Orlando since

table in conversation. And the magic and

year, including a love fest celebrating

2000, has been producing events, from

connectedness that happens when you are

Orlando. I had also done a lady boss din-

large scale to intimate, for 12 years. “I am

sharing a meal is often a hard thing to rep-

ner that was exceptional. I wanted to do

very much in love with Orlando and have

licate. So, I decided the plan would be to

something like it again, maybe expanding

been thrilled to see it grow in so many iter-

throw everyone’s name into a hat and draw

it. Then Laura and I crossed paths and it

ations. Before The Dinner Party Project, I

out the diners. I wanted to meet new peo-

was a great match that led to the Women

was at a place in my life where I was tired,

ple but wanted to get them together in a

Lead Orlando dinner,” she shares.

needed a break and hadn’t had a holiday —

meaningful way,” she explains.

“I moved to Orlando somewhat begrudg-

and some projects were not working out

Voila! A new business based on the

ingly in October 2015,” Laura says. “I am

the way I had hoped. So, I took a sabbatical

simple concept of blind-drawing and invit-

kind of a temporary Los Angeles trans-

and left town for a while,” she says.

ing seven people — Dana would be the

plant. But I have had this really mad love

She cleared out her savings account and

eighth — to dinner was born. There would

affair with Orlando that I did not really

headed for Australia and New Zealand for

be good food and drink, but also questions

anticipate.” She used to work for Disney

a few months, planning to return to Orlando

to lead the conversation.

and traveled here quite a bit — never

rested, restored and ready for the next 26

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Dana started promoting The Dinner

exploring the city. It was just theme parks

and the convention center for her. “I had no real concept of what the city was like. It’s a beautiful under-the-radar place that’s actually a community in a way I have never experienced before,” she adds. Her husband would be based in Central Florida for a year and a half and Laura wanted to find something to do while he was finishing a project. Even though she had different job opportunities, nothing felt quite right. She started her own creative consulting company, but her passion project is The Brave Millennial, an organization dedicated to supporting and promoting millennial women in the American workplace. “It has grown into something larger than I anticipated in a short time. It’s something I dreamed up with a friend back in 2015. Working in the entertainment business in LA, I saw how prominent sexism, ageism, racism — all the -isms — were impacting women. There was also an interesting dynamic going on in the workplace among millennials. They were becoming the largest group in the workforce and there was a generational tension that I wanted to help solve,” she explains. The Brave Millennial supports that effort through programming and workshops around the country to bridge the gap. She sees experienced baby boomers leaving the workforce and millennials often moving from job to job creating talent voids. “Sometimes the culture is just not a good fit. I wanted to study the issue more so I started conversations around the country based on listening to millennials. I wanted to know what was really happening so I started with women 22 to 35,” she adds. Laura proceeded to host live events for groups of women. However, she did not really know anyone in Orlando so she reached out to her mentor Meg Crofton, former president of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, for advice. Meg suggested she contact Kelly Cohen, may | june 2017

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WOMEN TO WATCH

WOMEN LEAD ORLANDO DINNER

who immediately began connecting Laura with local women. “As I started to get to know more people, everyone kept asking

Presented by: The Brave Millennial &

if I knew Dana. I signed up for The Dinner

The Dinner Party Project

Party Project and was super excited when

Title Sponsor: Big Vision

I got the email saying I had been selected to attend a dinner party. I showed up that

Venue Sponsor: The Balcony Orlando

night and met Dana. We became instant

Photography: Big Vision

friends,” she says.

Music: Nicholas Roberts

Laura encouraged Dana to expand the

Community Sponsors: Kelly Cohen,

lady boss dinner. “We wanted to create

Beth Hobart, ATHENA NextGen

community, bridge different groups of

Restaurant Sponsors: Black Rooster

women and give them exposure to each

Taqueria, The Rusty Spoon, The Osprey Tavern, Fig & Flour Bakery

other. And how can we do something that feels different from other gatherings that felt very corporate or not intimate? We

Dana Marie Roquemore and Laura Youngkin

Beverage Sponsors: Tito’s Vodka, Redbull,

crafted this event with tables of eight and

Credo Coffee, Shakers

used questions to lead the conversations,” Laura explains.

Event Design & Production Sponsors:

It was clearly a success and social media was buzzing for days afterward. The ladies plan to repeat the event in the future as they continue with their own passion projects. For more information, visit thedinnerpartyproject.co and thebravemillenial.com.

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A Chair Affair, Runway Collection Printing: Lawton Connect

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WOMEN TO WATCH

The 2017

Orlando WOMEN’S CONFERENCE Encompasses the Power of Sisterhood by Anna Sibilrud-Willis Photos by 106Foto

One woman can conquer anything. A group of women can conquer everything. When this magic occurs, it opens new doors and it changes destinies. These feelings of empowerment resonated among the more than 500 women who attended the 2017 Orlando Women’s Conference, presented by Orange Appeal and Orlando Health, at the beautiful Loew’s Sapphire Falls Resort.

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Margie Suplee, Wendy Tramell, Whitney Ashby, Kate Slentz, Christi Ashby and Laurie Turner

he cool, April morning began as

and they were passionate about helping

attendees chatted and enjoyed

other women find their own niche and

coffee in the diverse and lively

career success. As a first-time attendee, it

marketplace where vendors

was remarkable to witness the compassion

introduced their products —

and vulnerability these women possess.

from skincare and clothing to artisan jew-

Shea Glenny led an interactive session on

elry and one-of-a-kind handbags — and

The Last Marketing Plan You’ll Ever Need to

services — such as health and wellness

nearly 100 attendees, who came out of the

offerings, leadership programs and non-

presentation buzzing with energy and

profit initiatives.

excitement.

Northwestern Mutual Financial Advisor

The second breakout sessions featured:

Sindy Canizales Walters opened the con-

How a Loss Can Impact You Financially,

ference with a captivating testament of her

Pursue a Passion-Driven Career, and Lead in

path from immigration to financial suc-

Your Own Style. Nemours Children’s Hos-

cess. Event Founder Christi Ashby then

pital President and session moderator

invited attendees to engage in the first

Dana Nicholson Bledsoe guided panelists

breakout sessions of the day: Perform at

Judi Awsumb, Donna Best and Sandy

Your Peak, The Last Marketing Plan You’ll

Hostetter in the Lead in Your Own Style ses-

Ever Need, and How to Be More Politically

sion. Feelings of motivation and liberation

Active.

engulfed the room as the women told their

“We define power as a negative thing

own stories of failures and victories in

for women,” explained Anna Eskamani,

male-dominated professions. The speakers

director of public affairs for Planned Par-

all agreed that making your own rules for

enthood of Southwest and Central Florida,

career success is crucial to avoid burnout.

in the Politically Active panel session.

The final breakout sessions included:

“Women are allowed to be moms, wives,

Manage your Mind, Communicate Effectively,

and CEOs.” The panel also featured Shelley

and Negotiate, Negotiate, Negotiate. Karen

Lauten, Helen Martinez and Carol Cox,

Keene, president of ATHENA Orlando

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WOMEN TO WATCH Anna Eskamani, Carol Cox, Helen Martinez and Shelley Lauten Annetta Wilson

As delectable finger desserts and coffee were served, creator of 7 Secrets to Becoming a Media Magnet and acclaimed success Donna Best, Judi Awsumb and Sandy Hostetter

coach Annetta Wilson took the stage. The room grew silent as the keynote speaker held up a $100 bill. She asked the worth of the bill. When Annetta proceeded to drop the money and step on it, the room was aghast. She then inquired about the worth of the money once more. The analogy that the $100 bill is worth the same amount, no matter how many hands it passes through or how many times it falls, was a powerful testament to every woman in the room

Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leadership, engaged panelists

had to be added for attendees standing in

Jill Schwartz and Hope Newsome in a

the back of the room.

lively discussion about negotiating. Key

As the last of the breakout sessions

takeaways included: be unafraid to ask for

concluded, empowered women flowed back

the salary you want, and be confident in

into the marketplace with newfound knowl-

your own talents and abilities. Listening to

edge and connections. Attendees found

these role models speak about their path

their seats in the ballroom to enjoy a lovely

was awe-inspiring and impactful. The

luncheon prepared and served by dedicated

attendees in the room hung on every word

hotel staff. Orlando Health keynote speaker

as the panelists spoke about their careers

Lauren Popeck, registered dietician, spoke

and successes.

about nutrition and how busy women can

Meanwhile, an attendee referred to Dr.

incorporate healthy meals and family time,

Romie Mushtaqâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s session Manage Your

without necessarily sitting around the din-

Mind: Clear the clutter and get on a path to

ing room table every evening. Lauren was

calmness and clarity as life-changing. Her

a wealth of information about easy,

session was so popular, additional seats

healthy meals and family connectedness.

Lauren Popeck

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Sindy Canizales Walters

Carolyn Fennell

Keita Ductant

Christi Ashbby and Kate Slentz

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WOMEN TO WATCH

about personal value and worth. Annetta concluded with a reflective quote, “A strong woman looks a challenge in the face, and gives it a wink.” Succeeding Annetta Wilson’s words of encouragement, The Mall at Millenia and Bloomingdale’s Public Relations Manager Jennifer Bentson presented a colorful and

Mayanne Downs, Carol Wick, Flora Maria Garcia, Linda Landman Gonzalez and Andrea Eliscu

practical selection of spring trends and

director of public affairs for Orlando Inter-

Feeling inspired, fortified and hum-

basic essentials for all seasons. The mod-

national Airport, the panel included influ-

bled, the attendees of the 2017 Orlando

els were working women with alter egos

ential community leaders Carol Wick,

Women’s Conference entered the cocktail

to embrace practicality along with fashion

Linda Landman Gonzalez, Andrea Eliscu,

reception where they participated in lively

sense. Jennifer focused on looks that could

Flora Maria Garcia and Mayanne Downs.

chats, meaningful connections and net-

adapt easily from day to night and from

The panel of women openly explained

working opportunities, while also visiting

the office to the weekend. The runway

their trials and tribulations in becoming

with vendors. There was an air of enthusi-

show concluded with a Q&A session for

influential members of the Central Florida

asm in the room as questions about next

the audience to gain insight for their per-

community. Each woman had a different

year’s date ensued.

sonal closet needs.

life path and experience, but all nodded in

Following a quick refreshment break,

agreement when a quote by Diane Marie-

To learn more about the 2018 Orlando

the Orlando Women’s Conference convened

child was stated: “A woman is the full cir-

Women’s Conference, join the discussion on

with the iconic Power Panel Discussion.

cle. Within her is the power to create, nur-

the Orlando Women’s Conference Facebook

Led by moderator Carolyn Fennell, senior

ture and transform.”

page or at orlandowomensconference.com.

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thelist

ORLANDO LOVE: REMEMBERING PULSE VICTIMS UNFORTUNATELY, EVERYONE REMEMBERS WHERE THEY WERE and what they were doing when they heard the tragic news of the deadly shooting at Pulse nightclub. And in the following days and weeks many special events and gatherings occurred. The City of Orlando and Orange County Government, in collaboration with Pulse, have jointly designated June 12, 2017, as Orlando United Day — A Day of Love and Kindness. The day will be dedicated to honoring the memory of the 49 Pulse shooting victims, supporting survivors, and recognizing the compassion and love that was displayed by the Central Florida community following the tragedy. Orlando United Day is an opportunity to join with others in Acts of Love and Kindness to continue the unity that followed the tragedy. Engaging in these activities on June 12 is a respectful and loving way to remember and honor the lives of those taken and to show compassion to those who need support.

Orlando Love: Remembering Our Angels, created by City of Orlando Commissioner Patty Sheehan, will feature prominent leaders including Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs and Pulse owner Barbara Poma at 7pm at the Lake Eola Amphitheater. The ceremony will also include musical performances by Olga Tañón, Sisaundra Lewis, the Orlando Gay Chorus and other Central Florida performers. There will also be a memorial reading of the 49 names of those who were taken on the June 12 tragedy.

OTHER EVENTS INCLUDE: Pulse nightclub owner Barbara Poma

The Orange County History Center Expanded One Orlando Collection and Digital Gallery 10am – 7pm The Orange County Administration Center Unveiling of the Sea-to-Sea Flag 10:30am Reflections and Remembrance 11am – 1pm at the Pulse nightclub site Moments of Hope and Healing 10pm – midnight at the Pulse nightclub site For more information visit orangecountyfl.net and downtownorlando.com.

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beauty body &spirit

Soothing scents can turn blah into ahhhh. And aromatherapy leads to relaxation. But if a spa day is not in the plan, find those smells that make you feel like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve escaped. From florals and citrus to herbs and spices, there are endless options. We found these beautiful candles, that are perfect indoors or out, at Magnolias & Vine in College Park. 38

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MYTHS

FACTS About Skin Cancer

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and while many of us may be familiar with the facts, it’s important information to share as each year in the U.S. more than 5.4 million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer are treated in more than 3.3 million people, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. by Dimitry Palceski, board certified dermatologist, Reflections Dermatology & Center For Skin Care

MYTH 1: 80 percent of a per-

MYTH 6: People of color don’t

son’s lifetime sun exposure is

get skin cancer.

acquired by the age of 18.

FACT: People of color are less FACT: It is estimated that only

likely to develop skin cancer

23 percent of lifetime exposure

than Caucasians, but they have

occurs by the age of 18. You can,

a higher risk of dying from it.

and should, help prevent sun

A very dangerous and fast-

damage at every age by using a

spreading skin cancer known

broad-spectrum sun protection

as acral lentiginous melanoma

daily and avoiding the sun from

is more common among darker-

10am – 2pm.

skinned people and may appear as a suspicious growth in the

MYTH 2: Tanning at a salon is safer than tanning outdoors.

FACT: When compared to people who have never tanned indoors, indoor tanners have a higher risk of all forms of skin can-

mucous membranes, under the

MYTH 4: You can’t get sunburned on a cloudy day.

nails, or on the palms of hands or soles of the feet. Whatever your skin color, protect yourself by obtaining a professional full-

FACT: Just because you can’t see your shadow doesn’t mean you’re safe from the

body exam every year.

cer. Indoor tanning provides approximately

sun’s damaging rays. Believe it or not, up

MYTH 7: Windows protect us from the

12 times more ultraviolet A (UVA) exposure

to 80 percent of the sun’s UV rays pene-

sun’s ultraviolet rays.

than natural sunlight and increases one’s

trate through clouds.

risk of developing melanoma by 75 percent.

MYTH 3: The sun is the best way to get

MYTH 5: A “base tan” protects your skin from sunburn.

vitamin D.

FACT: Our bodies can produce some

FACT: While glass does block most UVB rays, UVA radiation can get through, which means that even if you’re indoors or in a car with the window up, you can get

FACT: There is no such thing as a safe or

burned. Special films for windows are

protective tan. In fact, any tan at all is a

available to provide an added layer of pro-

vitamin D following exposure to the sun’s

sign of skin damage. Skin tans in response

tection against UVA exposure. Or consider

ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation. However,

to UV damage to the skin’s DNA; a tan is

wearing an all-day, lightweight sunscreen,

after approximately 5 minutes, vitamin D

the skin’s attempt to repair sun damage

especially on your hands if you’re in the

production reaches its maximum. Further

and prevent further injury. But these

car a lot.

UV exposure will actually break down

imperfect repairs can cause gene defects

vitamin D. (See page 42 of this issue for

that can lead to skin cancer.

more information on vitamin D).

Do yourself a favor and practice sun safety! More information from Dr. Palceski is available on our all-new website, orangeappeal.com.

orangeappeal.com

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VITAMIN D3:

A Super Vitamin for Health by Deborah Harding, MD and Victor Harding, MD,

Harding Medical Institute

A person with low Vitamin D reported: “It was winter, and I was struggling with getting out of bed. My alarm went off, and I could barely force myself to get up and get ready for work. Even after food and coffee, my body felt heavy, my mind slow. I had fought with depression for almost a decade at this point and was used to the feeling, but I also knew my father had symptoms that pointed to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and hated the winter with its constant cloudy skies and lack of sunshine. I assumed I was afflicted with the same problem and didn’t question my lack of energy and aching body. I was grumpy for weeks at a time. I blamed it on the weather. Eventually my therapist suggested I try a vitamin D supplement. The difference was like night and day. By the second day I was feeling completely different, like I just woke up after a good night’s sleep.”

WHAT IS VITAMIN D?

for just a few minutes, fully dressed, you

structure. Vitamin D receptors in the

Vitamin D is a basic vitamin that the

can easily be vitamin D deficient even in

brain are linked to mood regulation, motor

human body requires, and is the only vita-

the sunniest climates. Most sunscreens

control, learning and memory. Lack of

min that the body has receptors for on

block the process. People with darker skin

vitamin D can often be identified by symp-

every type of cell. Though it is found in

require more time in the sun than those

toms such as weight gain, low bone density

some foods, like fatty fish, most of the vita-

with lighter skin, and older people are

(even leading to fractures), difficulty in the

min D we require is made, in the form of

more at risk for deficiency than younger

regulation of blood sugar, mood changes

vitamin D3, when ultraviolet light from the

people. Due to aging kidneys, older people

and depression, joint pain (particularly in

sun interacts with precursor molecules in

may process dietary vitamin D less effi-

the knees and spine), muscle cramps and

our skin. This requires direct exposure of

ciently, and they have fewer receptors for

weakness, fatigue, and a weakened immune

the skin (such as face, arms and legs) to

the vitamin in their skin cells. Because of

system. Leaving these symptoms untreated

sunlight for about one-fourth of the time it

its link with bone health, elderly people

can lead to, or worsen, serious issues in

would take to develop a sunburn (which

(who may also develop osteoporosis)

both men and women such as:

depends on season, age and skin type for

should be careful to get enough vitamin D.

Rickets in children

each person.) The body can store the vita-

People taking corticosteroids may see

Diabetes

min in fat cells and release it slowly over

bone loss from this medication, and should

Asthma

periods with less sunlight (such as in the

consider taking vitamin D to repair it.

Osteopenia or osteoporosis

winter). Vitamin D3 is refined into the

Those with preexisting kidney or liver

Increased colds or influenza

active hormone calcitriol, which helps to

disease may have problems converting

Cardiovascular disease

modulate DNA transcription and gene

vitamin D from food to a form the body

Depression

expression in the nuclei of our cells.

can use.

Multiple sclerosis

Increased risk of cancer

WHO IS AT RISK for VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY?

IMPORTANCE of VITAMIN D

A surprisingly large number of people

vitamin D in the body. It helps the body

UTILIZING VITAMIN D — for DISEASE PREVENTION

may not be getting enough vitamin D. If

regulate the minerals calcium and phos-

Many medical studies have shown that excel-

you work indoors and tend to go outside

phorus, and plays a vital role in bone

lent vitamin D3 blood levels are associated

orangeappeal.com

It is hard to overstate the importance of

bb&s with reduced risk of disease and reduced

your veins and arteries. Hypertension is

and higher rates of vitamin D deficiency.

mortality in patients who are already hos-

linked to several extremely serious health

Evidence-Based Mental Health published a

pitalized. The New England Journal of Med-

issues such as stroke, heart attacks, ath-

clinical review in 2016 in which research-

icine reported that patients whose vitamin

erosclerosis, kidney disease and retinal

ers found that vitamin D deficiency is

D levels were healthy experienced only a

disease. Vitamin D deficiency has been

common in patients with severe mental

16% mortality rate in hospital, compared to

associated with high blood pressure, and

illness such as schizophrenia. Because

a 45% mortality rate among hospitalized

adding vitamin D supplementation has

vitamin D reduces inflammation system

patients whose vitamin D levels were defi-

been shown in some studies to lower

wide, it should be further researched and

cient. Low vitamin D levels are a mortality

hypertension. Patients with higher blood

implemented in therapies for patients

risk factor, among many types of diseases,

levels of vitamin D were found to have

with mood disorders and schizophrenia to

from cancer to bacterial infection. How-

lower blood pressure in a 2010 study by the

assist in mental health. Schizophrenic

ever, large sudden doses of vitamin D is

International Journal of Endocrinology.

patients in remission were found to have

not associated with consistently reversing

much higher levels of vitamin D than

min can’t simply cure illnesses at the last

VITAMIN D for BREAST, PROSTATE AND OTHER CANCERS

minute. This suggests that vitamin D is

A 2016 study in Endocrinology published

powerful when used as a preventative

the surprising findings that breast cancer

VITAMIN D and INFLAMMATION

measure, and proper blood levels should

patients with low vitamin D had higher

Vitamin D has a powerful anti-inflamma-

be maintained daily to see optimum results.

rates of metastasis and tumor progression.

tory effect, and many illnesses are related

mortality risk in ICU patients; the vita-

those suffering from hallucinations or schizophrenic episodes.

Though most daily multivitamins con-

High incidence of expression of the gene

to inflammation that might not at first be

tain only 400 to 800 IU per tablet, most of

called ID1 has been linked with breast

obvious if you only think of injuries.

the benefits of vitamin D are seen at much

cancer tumor metastasis. The higher the

Researchers at National Jewish Health

higher doses, particularly to maintain ide-

levels of vitamin D in the blood, the less

posted in The Journal of Immunology in

al blood levels. Doses of 2,000 to 8,000 IU

ID1 was found in the breast cancer cell

2012, “Patients with chronic inflammatory

per day should be taken with meals (to aid

line. This suggests a potential preventative

diseases, such as asthma, arthritis and

the organs in absorbing more vitamins

power of vitamin D, and people at risk of

prostate cancer, who are vitamin D defi-

and minerals from food) and blood levels

breast cancer should make vitamin D part

cient, may benefit from vitamin D supple-

need to be monitored by your doctor to

of their daily regimen.

mentation to get their serum vitamin D

obtain the correct dosage for optimal levels.

Vitamin D has also been lauded as a

levels above 30 nanograms/milliliter.”

powerful vitamin that can help in the man-

Vitamin D can also help patients with other

agement of prostate cancer. The National

inflammatory diseases such as allergies,

Osteoporosis is the slow breaking down

Cancer Institute published research from

diabetes and depression, which itself can

and weakening of bones in the body, par-

2012 that showed that men with prostate

cause system-wide inflammation.

ticularly affecting females, the elderly, and

cancer died almost twice as often if they

those with low sex hormones. Vitamin D

had low levels of vitamin D than if their lev-

helps your intestines absorb calcium from

els were sufficient. The scientists believed

TAKE CARE of YOURSELF with VITAMIN D — the SUPER VITAMIN

food. In elderly patients or those at risk of

the vitamin works to hasten the death of

Vitamin D is turning out to be an inexpen-

osteoporosis, vitamin D is crucial to help

cancerous cells.

sive, widely-available super vitamin that

VITAMIN D for OSTEOPOROSIS

rebuild bone density. When taken in prop-

Multiple studies have shown a relation-

can benefit almost everyone. Have your

er doses, in conjunction with osteoporosis

ship between low vitamin D levels and

blood tested for vitamin D levels and make

medications, vitamin D will boost calcium

increased incidences of many cancers.

sure you are in the mid-to-high range.

intake and encourage the body to rebuild bone.

VITAMIN D for MENTAL HEALTH

Blood levels need to be monitored because too much vitamin D can be toxic. Ask your

Low levels of vitamin D are strongly asso-

doctor to check your blood levelsand, if

ciated with mood disorders, including

appropriate, add vitamin D3 to your daily

Hypertension is unnaturally and consis-

depression. People living at high latitudes

regimen for physical and mental health.

tently high blood pressure. This is literally

where exposure to sunlight is insufficient

Lastly, enjoy playing in the sun for your

the amount of pressure on the walls of

have higher rates of seasonal depression

mind and your health!

VITAMIN D for HYPERTENSION

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bb&s

Sumer’s Calling:

Are You Beach Body Ready? by Bonnie Pierce, CPT, RYT

and Tammy Smith, RN, CPT

Squashing the preconceived notions of the ideal summer body and how to set yourself up for success on the journey toward a happier, healthier you!

t’s swimsuit season! And the

future predicaments such as this and take

let’s begin our journey of building the

beach vacation you planned in

control of the situation. Start by ditching

bathing suit body of your dreams within

December is a month away. With

the bad habits. Decide to be a “person

the next four weeks.

this deadline looming over your

that’s in shape” no matter what the cir-

head, you find yourself in the

cumstances or perceived schedule conflicts

The Preparation

that pull you in the opposite direction.

Consult with your doctor before starting

beachwear department of your favorite store looking for something that will hide

It’s no coincidence that the temporary

any type of physical fitness program. Seek

all the indulgences of winter. You pick a

body band-aids listed below are what the

the advice of a professional when setting

few suits, proceed to the dressing room

average “healthy person” follows every

up your short-term (and long-term) goals.

and for most, it goes downhill from there.

day of their life. They don’t depend on hit-

Hire a personal trainer who will initially

After completely peeling off most of

ting the gym seven days a week, doing a

assess your current health status and take

your clothes, you try on your first choice

cleanse or going on a short-term diet when

time to discuss your needs. She’s the one

and are far from pleased. The harsh,

a special occasion arises, but rather

that knows how to tailor a plan that will

bright, overhead lights of the changing

they’ve decided to live their lives as if

help you meet your goals while avoiding

area seem to accentuate every perceived

every day is the day before they must look

injury. And while you’re there, ask her if

flaw you’ve ever noticed on your body. You

good for a special event.

she can use this short span of time to teach

focus on the one you hate the most and

A few words of caution, for health rea-

you how to work out correctly and most

while you’re looking, you find new places

sons: ditch the idea that you can achieve

effectively on your own. Don’t be surprised

that don’t meet your expectations. Many

your goals by following any type of the so-

if, after the experiment ends, you decide to

you can’t change. For instance, women

called rapid weight loss plans. Crash diet-

keep seeing her on a regular basis. She’s

with short torsos often wish for longer

ing can slow your metabolism leading to

the one that will keep you on track, make

ones with defined waists while those with

future weight gain; weaken your immune

you accountable and change up your exer-

elongated frames may yearn for perkier

system; and increase your risk of dehydra-

cise program and dietary needs to meet

glutes and well-defined, shapely legs. So

tion, heart palpitations and cardiac stress.

the changes you’ll encounter on your road

give up on changing things you can’t change.

And when you over-train, you increase

to a permanent healthy lifestyle.

Before we turn our focus on what you

your chances of getting sick and of elevat-

A competent trainer should do a com-

can do now to temporarily solve the pres-

ing your blood pressure to an unhealthy

plete health assessment and a whole-body

ent dilemma, let’s begin with what you

level. You may also suffer from an early

composition analysis as part of your first

might call an attitude change. Yes, it is

onset of fatigue, a decrease in energy and

visit. Although you may be far from over-

possible to be healthy and happy at the

unnecessary, prolonged muscle soreness.

weight, you may discover that your BMI

same time. You can decide now to avoid

So, with the addition of these disclaimers,

(body mass index) results reflect another

orangeappeal.com

bb&s reason your body doesn’t look “bathing suit ready.” For instance, even though many may consider themselves far from overweight, the BMI test results for a 5'4" woman weighing 123 pounds may indicate that her body consists of 30.2 pounds of fat!

The Plan Using the statistics gathered from your health assessment and keeping in mind your four-week goal, your trainer may suggest you initially start training five days a week. Although three days has become the precedent for healthy workout habits, she has the expertise to develop an effective five-day plan that will keep you healthy and decrease muscle soreness during the process. Base your diet on the laws of clean eating, which means you should eat fruits, veggies, lean meats, and drink two to three liters of water a day. When planning to lose weight in a short amount of time, cutting out the more dense carbs like rice, breads and pasta has the greatest effect. In addition, you should stop eating after 7:30pm, cut out the alcohol (yes that includes wine), and go to bed as early as possible. After you set up these guidelines and start working on developing your beachready body over the next four weeks, it’s great to have an overall goal in mind, but never let it creep to the forefront of your journey. It can become overwhelming and act as a deterrent to what you’re trying to accomplish. Don’t beat yourself up over any setbacks and remind yourself that, like most things in life, the best way to achieve a goal is by taking it one day at a time. Bonnie Pierce, CPT, RYT, and Tammy Smith, RN, CPT, RYT, and certified food and wellness coach, operate Lifestyle Management Group in Maitland. To contact: call 407-252-6541, email bonniefitness.4u@gmail.com or totalfitness@comcast.net. 48

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tastes&experiences

A rich, buttery, made-from-scratch scone with apricots, pecans and a touch of icing is just one of the tasty items on the menu at Pearson’s Café in the North Quarter District of downtown Orlando. Chef Kim Pearson takes pride in creating delicious meals with fresh ingredients. Open for breakfast and lunch, the café has also started offering a Happy Hour with light bites and shareables as well as specially priced beer and wine, Monday through Friday from 4–8pm.

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t&e

downtown BRUNCHING AROUND

THERE ARE PLACES THAT DO BRUNCH AND THERE ARE PLACES THAT ARE KNOWN FOR BRUNCH. THESE HOT SPOTS IN THE DOWNTOWN ORLANDO AREA ARE THE LATTER.

NOVA

1409 N. Orange Ave., Orlando 32804 With picturesque views of Lake Ivanhoe, bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys, and fresh-made specialties like chicken fried steak and waffles, it’s no wonder NOVA’s brunch is so popular. NOVA is also known for its hand-crafted cocktails, which you can sip from a 32-ounce Mason jar in your choice of flavors such as Brunch Punch, Jalapeño Margarita and Orange Crush. Served Saturdays and Sundays from 10am – 3pm. Reservations recommended on Sunday; call 407-745-4080.

HAMBURGER MARY’S

110 W. Church St., Orlando 32801 Step up your Sunday Funday by partaking in Hamburger Mary’s award-winning Broadway Brunch, with different Broadway production numbers, from Mary Poppins and Hairspray to Grease and Les Misérables, each week. Brunch menu items include “Church Street” skillets (breakfast potatoes, sasuage gravy and cheese topped with two eggs), Mary’s Omelettes, and The “Yolks On You” Burger. Seating at 11am or 11:30am and reservations are a must. Call 321-319-0600.

SOCO

KASA RESTAURANT & BAR

SOCO’s brunch offers all the Southern comforts, like fresh but-

A little more than a year ago, Kasa Restaurant & Bar introduced

termilk biscuits and gravy with crispy pork belly and thick, rich

is Bubbles N’ Brunch that includes bottomless mimosas and san-

Baked Apple-Stuffed Brioche French Toast with whiskey maple

gria, live entertainment, made-to-order stations and build-your-

syrup. And for a twist on the traditional mimosa, try the South-

own sangria bar. Kasa is constantly changing its buffet menu

ern Lemonade and Bubbles made with citrus infused vodka, lil-

with signature breakfast staples such as the Miso Praline Bacon

let, lemon and sparkling wine. The patio is still the place to be!

and Sweet Potato Pancakes with Ginger Maple Syrup.

Served Sundays, 11am – 3pm.

For $32 all-inclusive, every Sunday from 11am – 4pm.

Reservations are recommended; call 407-849-1800.

Reservations highly recommended at 407-985-5272.

629 E. Central Blvd, Orlando 32801

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183 S. Orange Ave., Orlando 32801

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THE BOHEME, GRAND BOHEMIAN HOTEL 325 S. Orange Ave., Orlando 32801

The Boheme’s lavish, award-winning Sunday Jazz Brunch features fresh waffle and omelet stations; antipasti display; chef-attended fresh crepe station; Kessler Crab Cake Action Station; prime rib carving station; fresh seafood and shellfish display; and a decadent Bohemian dessert display. A la carte items and unlimited mimosas are also served. Sunday brunch is available 10am – 2pm for $49 per person (excluding holidays). Reservations are highly recommended. Call 407-581-4700.

MAXINE’S ON SHINE

337 N. Shine Ave., Orlando 32803 When brunching at Maxine’s, you really feel at home with owners Kirt and Maxine Earhart and talented musicians making everyone feel welcome. If you’re feeling indulgent, splurge on a muy grande mimosa or Bloody Mary, and a brisket burger topped with bacon, fried egg, smoked cheddar and a side of seasoned fries. The Rejuicination Brunch takes place Saturdays, 10am – 3pm, and Sundays, 10am – 5pm, with live entertainment both days. Reservations recommended at 407-674-6841.

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SANTIAGO'S BODEGA

802 Virginia Dr., Orlando 32803 Offering a variety of tasty tapas for lunch and dinner, Santiago’s Bodega takes it to a whole other level for brunch, with an impressive all-youcan-eat buffet featuring a carving station, salad station, dessert table and pastas, as well as omelets, pancakes and croissant French toast made to order. And don’t forget the bottomless mimosas and sangria! Served Saturdays and Sundays from 10am – 2:30pm for $39.95 a person; reservations recommended by calling 407-412-6979.

DOVECOTE

390 N. Orange Ave., Suite 110, Orlando 32801 The neighborhood brasserie serves rosé all day for $15 a person. Diners can also enjoy coffee crafted by the on-site barista and signature dishes like the brioche French toast, Croque Madame (ham, gruyère cheese, mornay sauce and sunny-side up egg) or chicken and sausage cassoulet (cranberry beans, chicken confit, pork sausage and breadcrumbs). Served from 10:30am – 2:30pm, reservations can be made at 407-930-1700.

orangeappeal.com

home&design

Beautiful blooms add an elegant touch to your table while celebrating sweet seasonal events, from Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day and bridal showers to family gatherings and graduations. Richard Streitler and Brian Joyce, Flourish Productions, offer these stylish tips for the most impact: The design should reflect the personality of the space you are in. Take into account the size and shape of the table. Create moments of discovery for your guests and punctuate designs with elements of surprise.

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h&d

by Karen LeBlanc

Cut the cord, embrace imperfection, mix in experimental materials and celebrate the “in between” — these are the prevailing design themes from

IMPERFECTLY PERFECT Just as Persian weavers purposely wove flaws into their rugs, and the Navajo left “spirit lines” in their textiles, artisans for centuries have been creating imperfectly, perfect works. The imperfection can occur

the 2017 Architectural Digest Design

naturally as uneven texture, colorations or

Show, held in New York City. This

brated in the Japanese concept of Wabi-

asymmetrical forms. This is an idea cele-

Feyz Lights

carefully curated presentation of

Sabi, where the artist embraces such natu-

and damascening) that is carefully added

luxury brands, artists, designers and

ral flaws in the work. Other artistic

when the glass is still hot and malleable.

imperfections can be a calculated element

When the globe is lit and glowing, the gold

that personifies the artist’s technique,

leaf detail resembles constellations.

makers is an alternate narrative to

such as the works of Turkish designer

Imperfectly perfect objects satisfy the

Feyza Köksal, founder and lead designer

design aficionado’s desire for one-of-a-

of FEYZ Studio. Köksal designed her new

kind works, impossible to replicate. There

Assemblage collection of glass globe

is a discernable consumer rebuke of the

artists, artisans and designers are

lights, each attached to a pole, with notice-

sea of sameness afflicting what passes for

pushing the boundaries of material,

able imperfections in glass thickness that

mass-produced design at major retailers.

create an interesting dispersion of light.

As a positive consequence, consumers are

mainstream ideas about design and decorating. Many of the show’s

craft and process in their works of art, furniture, lighting, sculpture and textiles. Open to the design trade and consumers, the annual Architectural Digest Design Show

“As a designer, I am very interested in

becoming more interested in process,

how certain objects activate a space and

material and craft in art and design as it

evoke different emotions. And I am espe-

relates to an object’s narrative.

cially inspired by imperfection,” she says.

Another compelling design story is

Using glass-blowing techniques learned

found in the work of artist Kristaps Gulbis,

in her homeland, each globe has gold leaf

of Kiel Arto Design, who teases out imper-

(inspired by the ancient process of gilding

fect beauty in the unique patinas of his

also is a platform to experience and discover design elements often emulated in the magazine’s glossy pages of glamorous interiors. This year, I discovered four design themes that pose fresh ideas about interior design. 60

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Kiel Arto Design table

saschaGrace Penny table

functional art tables. Gulbis crafts his tables from reclaimed automotive steel and finishes with a hard, scratch-resistant glossy or matte top coat. Design studio sachaGrace works with Lucite and metal to create furnishings with embedded objects that showcase the technique and artistry of suspended animation inherent in every handmade piece. The Room Collection features Lucite pieces meticulously embedded with gold or copper flakes, Azurite shards, or reclaimed metal coils. Each cluster can be viewed in three dimensions and draws inspiration from celestial and geological formations.

Jason Mizrahi Loop Chair

THE BEAUTY IN-BETWEEN There is beauty to behold in the void of things, the provocative in-betweenness of space. At the show, I discovered several artists and designers exploring this concept, giving weight to spaces in-between. The interplay between positive and negative space is another ancient Japanese concept known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;ma,â&#x20AC;? meaning the space between, and it opens up our minds to think about and appreciate the artistry of the void. may | june 2017

h&d Los Angeles-based, contemporary furniture designer Jason Mizrahi debuted five

Ara Tubular Chair Group 01

new designs in his collection that juxtapose positive and negative space. The Loop Chair expresses movement through fluid forms with a seating surface that curves down seamlessly to envelop a series of loops that create a supporting base. Mizrahi’s Denali Table, a limited edition

crafted of reclaimed plastic. Markel’s trans-

Art and design created from reclaimed

design, creates a dialogue between circu-

lucent chairs and stools have the texture

materials typically belongs in the experi-

lar shapes and linear planes with its sur-

and translucency of rock candy—my first

mental realm, as artists develop new tech-

face draping over a base of sinuous curves.

impression, which was precisely the kind

niques for coaxing unconventional mate-

Mizrahi crafts his sculptural furniture

of childhood nostalgia she wants to convey.

rials into objects of beauty. Textile artist

from aerospace-grade materials.

“I want the pieces to be evocative of those

Alexandra Kohl creates genre-defying

objects that were magical to you as a child

works that classify as both experimental

whether they are candy or jelly shoes or

and repurposed art. Kohl weaves horse

popsicles,” explains Markel, who sources

hair from manes and tails reclaimed in

from a variety of recycled plastics, both

the grooming process with cotton fibers in

thermoset and thermoplastic, sometimes

minimalist designs. “This collection ampli-

blending plastics in large molds. Once

fies the organic harmony produced when

cured, the objects are removed and pol-

plant and animal nature is joined,” explains

ished to reveal their inherent translucency.

Kohl, who weaves on looms that can take

Jason Mizrahi Denali Table

Artist and designer Ara Levon Thorose

EXPERIMENTAL MATERIALS

as long as 10 hours to set up.

uses material innovations to create objects that are at the intersection of art and design.

The show hosted a design talk about a “new

His Tubular Chair Group 01 looks as if

movement afoot” known as the New Mate-

extruded from a Play-Doh Fun Factory with

rial Style calling out several key master

its sinewy forms and shiny rubber surfaces.

makers using untapped materials “to take

Devoid of traditional chair legs and a back-

precedence over conventional standards

rest, the Tubular Chair Group 01 looks more

of typology, usability and even beauty.”

like a sculptural installation than a trio of

I met up with experimental designer

chairs crafted from an upholstered neo-

Kim Markel, on the list of key master

prene surface using a three-dimensional

makers, to check out her Glow collection,

line drawing.

Alexandra Kohl Woven Horse textiles

DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY MERGE TO CUT THE CORD

Kim Markel Glow collection

With the proliferation of wireless technology, good design has little patience for unsightly cords and wires. Companies such as Sony are breaking down barriers between technology and design with products that cut the cord and eliminate the fixed screen. At the show, Sony Life Space UX debuted a prototype of its 4K Projector that turns any surface into a multimedia screen proKim Markel Waterway vases

jecting books, music, movies, even art as wide as 120 inches.

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Sony Space Life Portable Ultra Short Throw Projector

designers making it an indisputable global design capital. The Architectural Digest Design Show is a curated gateway to East Coast design posing provocative alternatives to mainstream decorating. For more, Sony Glass Sound Speaker

“It offers the opportunity to surf your universe of content and enjoy all different

LED Bulb Speaker and Glass Sound Speaker, all released in 2016.

types of interests,” explains Tamica

“With the portable projectors, you have

Fields, senior product marketing special-

the option to watch content anywhere with-

ist for Sony Life Space UX Group. I gave

out being tied to a stationary screen,” Fields

the new model a test run, projecting onto

explains. The projector comes with a wire-

the wall a virtual bookshelf holding a col-

less unit that transmits content from various

lection of ebooks that I could click to open

devices such as a PC, Blu-ray player or cable

and read in a large-screen experience.

box via HDMI. “You spend so much time

The new concept model joins the Life

decorating your home to make it stylish, so

Space UX family of home solutions that

why would you settle for electronics being

reimagine how consumer technology fits

obtrusive in your space?” she adds.

within the home. The line also includes

New York City is home to more than

the Portable Ultra Short Throw Projector,

7,500 firms that employ more than 50,000

check out addesignshow.com.

Karen LeBlanc is host of The Design Tourist series. She travels the globe attending some of the world’s premiere design events in search of the latest trends, tastemakers and unique finds. Learn more at thedesigntourist.com.

may | june 2017

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Photos of Elizabeth taken at All In One Decorating Solutions 96

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Elizabeth Hart:

Renewed, Restored Resilient When first meeting Elizabeth Hart you are immediately struck by a few things. She is very tall; she is very beautiful; and she is genuinely warm. The latter may be a testament to her Midwestern roots and sensibility. You also see a quiet strength and resolve that she credits to the women in her family. There is no pretense and when she speaks, she looks at you directly with sincerity. by Christi

Ashby

She is an experienced on-air talent whose career as a television

juggle everything. With deadlines, I was working around the clock

meteorologist, host and feature reporter spanned across several

and having a really difficult time managing my parenting respon-

major markets, including Washington, D.C., Philadelphia,

sibilities with my job,” she says.

Miami and Orlando. Last year she left her position with WKMG Channel 6 after nine years to pursue her passion for home reno-

That’s when the wheels started turning for her and making her

vation. After completing her own home and renovating several

realize she wanted to come up with something better. She wanted

others, she began developing a new television program that

to continue her profession, but did not think it worked for the kind

debuted April 8 (and airs at noon on Saturdays). Elizabeth Hart

of parent she wanted to be. During the housing market crash her

is the creator, producer and host of Ready, Set, Renovate!, a show

Realtor advised her to consider buying a house to turn into rental

that features local homes, design and architecture trends, and

income. Over the course of several years, she bought houses, fixed

personalities, as well as community projects utilizing volunteers.

them up and created a steady rental revenue stream. And in the process of working on these renovations, she realized how much

But it has not been an easy path. A decade ago Elizabeth was liv-

she enjoyed picking out the tile and selecting the finishes.

ing her dreams — as a newlywed she and her husband landed in Orlando where her professional star was rising. Then that world

And the extra revenue allowed Elizabeth to cut back on her hours

suddenly collapsed. Her husband died as she was in labor with

at Channel 6 and be more active in her son’s life. “I could take him

their first child. And everything after that was a series of deci-

to all the parties and drive him to school every day,” she adds.

sions based on how she could best raise her son alone.

Being there for him was her top priority.

“I met my husband in Miami when I was working for CBS. His

“My son — what he has done for me is make me realize that there

parents were from Orlando, so after we got married we ended up

is another level of love. He is my everything. The fact that his dad

here and I was pregnant with our first child. While I was in the

lives in him is amazing. He has such a good, sweet heart. He loves

hospital giving birth, my husband passed away. It was awful.

and cares about me. And we are always going to have a very spe-

Every day I think about it and I still can’t believe it happened. It

cial connection. Not that we won’t go through rough times — or he

was emotionally traumatic and it was really hard because I didn’t

may bring home a girl I don’t approve of. I cannot wait to see what

have any family here. I was working at the station and trying to

he does with his life and how he impacts the world,” she says.

may | june 2017

Her son, now 9, is a swimmer who idolizes Michael Phelps. Eliz-

— it’s always longer. Materials don’t come in, people don’t show

abeth tries to do a lot of typical dad activities with him such as

up. One time we were going to shoot some flooring installation

kayaking, white water rafting and traveling. “It’s important for me

and the contractor called and said, ‘You won’t believe what hap-

that he sees the world so he has some perspective,” she adds.

pened. We can’t do it today because my number one installer was involved in a traffic incident,’” she explains.

He was very supportive of her efforts to leave her job as a meteorologist to start this new venture. He proudly tells everyone at

Not only is all this complicated and challenging, but Elizabeth is

school that his mom is Ready, Set, Renovate. He asks her a lot of

also doing it on a very small budget. She sets up all the shoots,

questions and he even wants to be on

does her own hair and makeup, writes

the show when he is older.

the copy and edits the final footage. “When you do it all you have complete

“In the beginning, about two and half

ownership of your vision. When you

years ago, I was kind of stumbling

turn over some of the creative pieces, it

around and I knew I wanted to do some-

hurts your heart a little bit,” she shares.

thing different professionally. The last property I had bought was in November

Because the construction schedule, sev-

of 2014 and it was in really bad shape. It

eral episodes are filmed simultaneously.

had been vacant for three years. But it

“Some days we will do multiple shoots.

was an interesting house and there

Once we went from a Winter Park home

were some cool things we were going to

to the Oviedo YMCA to pick up film

do to it. I thought it would give us some

somewhere else,” she explains. Cloth-

seed content. I hired a freelance photog-

ing is an issue as well for continuity so

rapher and we started filming some

Elizabeth must keep track of what she

projects within the house. I took them to

wears when. It is a constant review of

my general manager at WKMG, Skip

details and Elizabeth admits they don’t

Valet. He encouraged me, gave me some

get them all right.

good feedback, guided me, and gave me direction. The show was originally

“Even as we go through season one

going to air in September 2015,” she

there’s growth. I think by the time we

explains.

get to season two we will be very solid. The projects that impress me the most

But Skip ended up leaving the station and the project was put on hold. “We only had six episodes at the

are the flips because there is such a limited budget and a very tight timeline,” she adds.

time and I didn’t know where it would end up,” she adds. Ultimately the project got the green light at Channel 6 and produc-

Elizabeth admits to being hooked on all the other home improve-

tion ramped up to a full season of 12 episodes. It may look easy to

ment shows. “It was actually a huge part of why I decided to do

produce these shows, but the entire process is in the hands of the

this because I loved them. Looking at them analytically and

construction crew, and sometimes even the weather.

breaking down the pieces made me realize I could do it,” she says.

“It is incredibly complicated between all the logistics: getting

The big difference for Ready, Set Renovate! is that it is locally

myself and the photographer there; making sure the homeowner

based with local personalities, companies, organizations and

is there; is the work happening that we plan to shoot and how

homeowners. We shouldn’t expect to see a lot of ship lap or

long is this going to take? It’s never the length of time estimated

unfinished basements. However, the show is being aired in other

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markets, where it is generalized and the local references are edit-

idea of renovation, not just as hard materials, but as a renewal.

ed out. Central Florida will continue to be home base and there

You can renovate anything — your diet, your body — so I like the

are plans to shoot some things in Jacksonville, West Palm Beach

application of the idea and the possibilities are endless,” she says.

and the Tampa/Sarasota area. Eventually, Elizabeth would like

Even boats and cars are ripe for renovation in future episodes.

for it to be a Florida-centric show. Clearly Elizabeth has her sights on many seasons to come. The As for doing it all on her own, Elizabeth says, “That’s just my

first episode focused on a couple who wanted to make their vaca-

personality. I come from a family full of strong women. My great-

tion home in New Smyrna Beach into their permanent home

grandfather immigrated here from Ire-

through an extensive renovation. Kathy

land. He settled in a small town in the

and Dave Rusnak, who is the co-owner

Midwest, on land which my grand-

of The Flooring Center, ended up updat-

mother inherited. I idolized her. She

ing quite a bit by using a single cabinet

was a dynamo who managed the farm-

as their inspiration. Safety concerns

land, she had 40 piano students every

were also addressed for the couple who

week; she was the organist at the

has many small grandchildren.

church; and she taught school for 47 years. So, I always had this example in

Another episode in season one includes

front of me of women who weren’t

an element close to Elizabeth’s heart —

afraid to just go out and do something. It

community service. And she plans to

never occurred to me to not do this” she

devote at least one show each season to

explains.

the spirit of volunteerism, bringing people together to renovate nonprofit and

Some may wonder why Elizabeth did

community facilities. She is excited

not just take the concept to a national

about the future possibilities and looks

network like HGTV. “We went down

forward to continuing to do this on her

every single road while developing this

own.

looking

for

alternatives.

called,

emailed and texted anyone I knew who

“Any success I might achieve or any fail-

might give me insight into how it

ure I might have, it’s all what I did —

worked. I had a number of people advise

what choices I have made. It’s a lot more

me that if I didn’t have a super original

gratifying when you place every piece of

idea — or some crazy story — that

the puzzle. I want my son to see me as a

would make it stand out, it wouldn’t even be looked at. Secondly,

woman and a person and a professional in the world. It doesn’t

they said I could shoot the pilot, spend a lot of money producing

matter that I am a woman,” she adds.

it and take it to someone else who might say they weren’t interested and later do their own version of it. I also liked the idea of

Elizabeth knows well the spirit of the show about renewal and

having a local show,” she says.

restoration also applies to life itself. “For me it is symbolic — looking back in retrospect, the moment I embraced this idea and

What does make Ready, Set, Renovate! stand out is the fact that it

felt like it’s risky and maybe not the best idea in the world, but

combines concepts from many successful programs. There is

I’m just going to go for it for my own personal satisfaction. I feel

flipping, high-end renovating, community projects, and design

like I have taken one step forward and two steps back about 150

and architecture trends. “Some people said there needed to be

times. But I want to try and make my life what I want it to be and

one set format, but I don’t think that’s the case. I always like the

this was incredibly empowering,” she says.

may | june 2017

SPECIAL OCCASIONS AND CELEBRATIONS CALL FOR SPECTACULAR TREATS. AND WE DISCOVERED THESE DELICIOUS DISHES AT AREA RESORTS THAT ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR CULINARY SKILLS.

Decadent

DESSERTS

BLACK BOTTOM PEANUT BUTTER PIE With silky chocolate mousse, rich peanut butter, and crunchy, candied peanuts, this flavorful dessert is a fan favorite. This is a great take on classic American flavors done with elevated techniques to really enhance the quality of flavors and textures. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Executive Pastry Chef Rabii Saber Available at the Lobby Bar at Four Seasons Resort Orlando. fourseasons.com/orlando | 407-313-7777

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BUTTERSCOTCH PUDDING Made with 12-year Macallan scotch and garnished with crunchy salty-sweet toffee, the Butterscotch Pudding is a dessert you will not want to miss. Additonal ingredients include heavy cream, cornstarch, brown egg yoks, vanilla extract, salt and Butter Plugra. This silky creamy confection is so popular it even has its own Facebook fan page! Available at La Luce in the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek. hiltonbonnetcreek.com | 407-597-3600

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PECAN TUILE Everglades’ Executive Pastry Chef Stefan’s Pecan Tuile is hand-crafted featuring a thin wafer made from sugar and almonds filled with Mascarpone and topped with fresh berries and Grand Marnier. A delicate dessert, it’s a perfect complement to the restaurant’s fresh steaks and Florida seafood. With the creaminess of the cheese, the fresh fruit and crispness of the wafer, the Pecan Tuile has remained on the Everglades menu for more than 15 years because it's such a favorite of locals and hotel guests. Available at Everglades restaurant at Rosen Centre Hotel. rosencentre.com | 407-996-9840

OCALA CAKE Named Ocala Cake, it is inspired by Black Forest Cake, which is derived from Germany and Ocala is our Florida forest. We wanted to make it as tall, fudgy, sinful and satisfying as possible. We use grand cru Valrhona chocolate; reduce the sugar to a minimum; use only fresh ingredients; add fresh raspberries, strawberries and buckthorn berries, so that our guests will not feel too guilty when devouring the whole slice. — Executive Pastry Chef Stephane Cheramy Available only for special events upon request at The Ritz-Carlton, Orlando, Grande Lakes. grandelakes.com | 407-206-2400

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FRESH CARROT CAKE Carrot cake is a decadent springtime dessert that showcases ingredient staples of the season. The sweetness of the honey, roasted pineapple and cream cheese dusted with cinnamon from Saigon completes this familiar dessert with a more complex depth of flavor. Available at LakeHouse at Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, spring 2017. grandcypress.regency.hyatt.com | 407-239-4240

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WARM CHOCOLATE HAZELNUT CAKE Created after a childhood favorite peanut butter and jelly sandwich, we decided to make a decadent chocolate dessert version with a warm fluffy chocolate cake that has a raspberry jam baked in the center and then the cake is topped with fresh hazelnuts that become toasted, giving it a rich fragrant nut flavor. Then we use a dark 72% chocolate from the Rhone region of France and mix in a creamy Nutella for the sauce. To balance some of the sweetness, we add salted caramel and fresh berries. The final “icing on the cake” is a rich Belgian chocolate gelato to contrast the warm cake and adds a balance worthy of heavenly delight. — Resort Executive Chef Robert Ash Available at the Omni Orlando Resort’s David’s Club Restaurant. omnihotels.com/hotels/orlando-championsgate | 407-390-6565

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THE LEMON This signature dessert contains candied lemon, sugar, water, lemon juice, orange juice, powdered sugar, butter, eggs, gelatin, lemon zest, vanilla bean and corn syrup. The dessert uses the entire lemon and then is reassembled to look like a lemon upon presentation. To keep the skin intact and reusable, chefs use a Dremel tool to remove the white skin from the inside of the rind. The skin is edible as it is cooked in a simple syrup mixture for an hour which creates the candied shell. Available at Bull & Bear, located within the Waldorf Astoria Orlando. waldorfastoriaorlando.com | 407-597-5500

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A Military Momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Journey

MAXINE CHANG REYES Photos by

KATHLEEN KENT PHOTOGRAPHY

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During her recent tenure in Orlando, Maxine Reyes was the only female company commander in her assigned battalion, with the largest volume mission and largest number of personnel and equipment. During her command, she was faced with the untimely death of one of her soldiers and was still able to effectively execute the Army’s mission without losing focus. Upon her completion of duty, her company was the top recruiting company in the Battalion and one of the top in a specific category in the Army. She credits the dedication and commitment to excellence of her soldiers and civilians she worked with, for a successful command. As a well-rounded individual, leader and patriot ambassador for female leaders across the country, Maxine played a vital role in leading, mentoring and coaching young citizens of Orlando and its surrounding areas as a keynote speaker to students emphasizing the importance of higher learning, and being passionate and purposeful in their personal life, as well as when selecting a career. She served on the 2016 Friends of the Mennello Museum gala committee, was a member of the Orlando Mayor’s Veterans Council, Association of the United States Army Orlando Sunshine Chapter, Caribbean American Heritage Chamber of Commerce and Hispanic Heritage Chamber of Commerce, and an active member of the Jamaican Diaspora. She is the founder of Fit For the Role, a 501c3 nonprofit organization in Orlando that supports veteran women, and inspires girls to be trailblazers and strong leaders by building confidence through education, self care, and purposeful pursuit of passion. She also supports causes that mentor and assist underprivileged youth. Maxine Reyes is the author of the soon to be released books entitled The Courageous and Graceful Life: Army Officer, Army Wife and The Happily Joint Guide To Making Happiness Last, a book she co-wrote with her husband of 19 years, Kenneth “Ken” Reyes. The duo plans on releasing their book in May on their 20th wedding anniversary. Maxine left a positive imprint on the city she grew to love. Her leadership and volunteer work in Orlando made her the recipient of the City of Orlando Proclamation naming July 14, 2016, Captain Maxine Reyes Day.

fter 20 years of serving in the military,

my husband and I have sacrificed more than seven years of our marriage to the needs of the Army. Of those seven years apart, 40 months have been in designated combat zones. On his first deployment to Afghanistan, we decided it was time to celebrate the miracle of life and have a little one of our own. We made this decision before he left for a 15-month tour in Afghanistan. I immediately saw our family physician to find out what was required of me to be in the best health possible for nine months of pregnancy. I began a healthier diet that consisted of exclusively organic foods. I increased my workout intensity while focusing on routines that were proven to promote successful pregnancies, births and postpartum recoveries. I had a candid conversation with my commander about our plan to begin a family. We felt that our careers were in a good place to support our decision. My commander was a mother herself and was married to a military member as well, so she understood our motives and timing.

may | june 2017

107

Immediately following my husband’s return,

reasonable adjustments to their professional

we started the process of creation. It wasn’t

lives despite the Family Medical Leave Act.

long before the signs of life were present. We

This makes us susceptible to unlawful discrim-

conceived our baby girl in less than two months

ination that makes families eligible for lawful

of trying. It was an exciting time for us. We

compensation. Fortunately, as a federal employ-

were in awe of how quickly everything hap-

ee, I was well protected from these types of

pened. He was only home for five weeks and we

unlawful practices. The military as a whole is a

were on the road to becoming parents. After 12

great organization that supports equal opportu-

years of marriage we were finally taking the next step. This dream of ours was now becoming a reality. I gave the good news to my chain of command and everyone was excited for me, but one of my senior leaders asked a question that dumbfounded me, “Is she going to keep the baby?” This incredibly insensitive question was driven by the unit’s desire to deploy me in the summer. When I learned about it from my commander — luckily I was not asked it firsthand — I miraculously man-

At that very moment, I became very aware that my career could be problematic as a working mother.

aged to keep my inner

nity and will correct any decisions that are counter to federal laws and are not in the best interests of the Army. So please do not mistake my experience as the norm for the Army. It is quite the opposite. Like any reputable organization, there are leaders that suffer from low emotional intelligence and speak before their thoughts are properly formulated. I believe this was one of those situations. Since that senior leader was powerless to take action against me for starting a family, I felt it was best for my career to

thoughts to myself. Imagine, after dedicating 12

forgive him and move on. I spent my energy on

years of professional service to the military, this

more important matters at hand, getting things

is how a senior leader decides to support us?

ready for our baby! With the love and help of

This was a complete failure in Army values

our friends and relatives, we had the support

and basic human decency. At that very moment,

system in place for a successful pregnancy.

I became very aware that my career could be problematic as a working mother. Fortunately

So many questions came to mind in regards to

that was the worst example of how a senior

the future. Will it be a boy or girl? Who will the

leader in the Army failed us. Unfortunately, it

child resemble? Will I suffer greatly from

wouldn’t be the last, but by far it was the most

morning sickness? What kind of cravings will I

egregious.

develop during the pregnancy? Will I fall victim to the late night pickle munchies? To my

108

Everyone who knew and appreciated us

surprise, I didn’t experience any morning sick-

declared, “It’s about time!” Ken and I had been

ness and didn’t get the opportunity to send my

in the military since we graduated high school,

husband to the corner store late at night to sat-

so we have committed our entire adult life to

isfy any cravings. The one thing that was my

serving. According to the National Women’s

cross to bear was sleepless nights. On the nights

Law Center, pregnant women are often denied

I could not find rest I would turn to my roots

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and enjoy warm organic milk and Jamaican water crackers. This was my goto-snack. (I must confess that this has always been my go-to-snack, so I really canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t credit it to my pregnancy). Our little girl was so well behaved in the womb. I remember her big swimming movements that would cause me to marvel at the life growing inside me. Another favored experience of ours was when she would forcibly push with her foot. Sometimes we could see the bulge as she stretched her developing muscles. I would touch the bottom of her foot to communicate my love for her and sometimes she would respond back by moving it all over my stomach, waiting for my touch. Her expanding consciousness would bring tears to my eyes. She quickly became my companion and my best friend that I could depend on to always keep me company. I became so used to her constant presence that I was not in a hurry to give birth, as it would be the beginning of the process that would inevitably bring us further and further apart.

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I immensely enjoyed my pregnancy and did not want the amazing experience to ever end. My pregnancy was absolutely perfect. They were the most spiritual nine months of my life. I grew as a woman and gained a new appreciation of the strength of our gender. It went by amazingly fast. Before I knew it, Victoria Alexis was born! Although I initially wanted a baby boy, I immediately fell in love with her as I heard her first cries proclaiming her existence. Just like that, my whole frame of reference changed. The reality of my existence now revolved around a child. A child that I longed for, would refer to in conversation, and buy gifts for long before she was ever born. I felt so blessed that the Lord granted me the privilege of becoming a mother and I vowed to make the most of the responsibility. Now I fully understood what my own mother was feeling over the years.

The only wrinkle in this wonderful tale was the Army wanted me back and only provided nine weeks of paid maternity leave. Now came the challenge of finding someone that I could trust with my most prized responsibility. “Oh my Lord,” I thought to myself, “Where is my mother when I need her most?” If I were back in Jamaica, this would be a simple matter. Between my grandmother and all my aunts who helped raised me, any of them would undoubtedly be honored with the task of providing care while I worked. But this isn’t Jamaica and the military can be an exacting master. Why oh why can’t I have the luxury of family living close by? I’ve heard and seen many horror stories of insane nannies mistreating babies. My husband and I immediately had a discussion about au pairs versus day cares. He calmed me down and promised me that our baby was going to be fine. He grew up in America with an Army mom and they both survived the challenges of being away from family support.

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I called my mother in Canada who assured me

model for her to look up to. I wanted to show

that my younger siblings did well in day care.

her how strong a woman could be. I also wanted

She advised me to calm down and enjoy Victoria

to show her through example, how a woman

while I was on leave.

can overcome challenges set before her. Victoria is now 8 and is one of the most resilient children

It was hard enough simply leaving the house

I’ve ever met. With the utmost humility, I am

without her to go shopping for groceries. I could

blessed to report that she has told me, with a

not begin to fathom leaving her alone with a

wisdom beyond her years, that she adores me and

stranger for more than eight hours at a time. I

admires that I am a soldier. She loves to hear me

considered becoming a stay-at-home mom and

sing and wants to be like me. She is kind with

separating from the military, but I did not want

her compliments. She likes my “stylish” ways

to quit my career. I still had so much to give. I

and tells me how kind and beautiful I am. I

invested more than a decade to my profession

appreciate being her mother and want nothing

and I was on the path to being placed in duty

more than continuing to develop her so she

positions few women in the world get to experi-

becomes even more authentic, courageous, grace-

ence. I confided in my husband all my fears and he reassured me that he would support me with any decision I made. I also spoke to my girlfriends, Francine (marine) and Tracy (airman), who were both military moms, and had similar concerns when they became mothers. They knew exactly what I was going through emotionally and had the

Ultimately, I chose to stay the course and continue on with my career.

ful, and everything God desires for her. I want to equip her with the knowledge and confidence to choose whatever profession she deems worthy of her time. Being a mother is not an inconvenience for the workforce. Being a mother and a professional is a display of strength that women

same concerns. I conquered my fears by listen-

have become famous for since recorded time.

ing to my friends and my peers who had first-

Mothers who chose to have a career should be

hand experience with the challenges that I was

admired for their aspirations. They should not

about to face.

be marginalized by leaders nor looked down upon by men who feel their place is in the

At first, it was unbearable. I cried a lot and

home. I would like to encourage all mothers

prayed for strength and consulted with my hus-

and future mothers, regardless of your deci-

band for support. He encouraged me to do what

sions to work or to stay at home, to be the woman

I felt was best for Victoria and me. Ultimately, I

that you want your child to be. You can accom-

chose to stay the course and continue on with

plish this by uplifting and inspiring others.

my career. I felt that financially it would be best for her and best for me professionally if I stayed

Sincerely,

in the Army. I wanted to be an exemplary role

Maxine

Read more about Maxine’s journey in her upcoming book The Courageous and Graceful Life: Army Officer, Army Wife. You can also find her on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook/Pinterest/YouTube @sincerelymaxine. Reference: www.nwlc.org (The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act: Making Room for Pregnancy on the Job.) Retrieved on January 8, 2017. may | june 2017

111

givingback

80 Years of Animal Love by Stephen Bardy, executive director, Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando

ALMOST 80 YEARS AGO THE PET ALLIANCE OF GREATER ORLANDO (PAGO) OPENED ITS DOORS AS THE ORLANDO HUMANE SOCIETY, INC. SINCE THAT SEPTEMBER DAY LONG AGO, THE AGENCY HAS MERGED TWO HUMANE SOCIETIES, ADDED VETERINARY

CLINICS AND ADOPTED MORE THAN 780,000 DOGS AND CATS.

erving a community for eight

do not impose breed or size restrictions.

adopted is a more ideal environment for

decades requires responding

Currently 15 apartment communities are

newborn or very young kittens and is sig-

and adapting to the commu-

featured on our website. More than half a

nificantly more cost effective.

nity’s changing needs by cre-

million people visit our website annually

The Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando pro-

ating new initiatives. PAGO is

with approximately 25 percent looking for

vides the veterinary care, feeding supplies

introducing three new initiatives to engage

pet-friendly housing options. PAGO also

and other items needed to care for the kittens,

the community through collaboration

provides on-site opportunities for wellness

with volunteer foster parents providing the

with the goal to reduce the number of dogs

and spay/neuter for those complexes reg-

required time to feed and nurture the kit-

and cats surrendered each year to shelters

istered. In addition, there are many eco-

tens. This creates an affordable solution that

and rescue programs.

nomic benefits to the complex, including

engages the community in the solution.

residents who stay nearly twice as long as

The Virtual Kitten Nursery is managed

non-pet owners. For more information,

by the agency’s foster parent coordinator,

PAGO assisted in forming a coalition of

call 407-351-7722 or email Destiny at

Susan Russell, and supported by a group

animal shelters, rescue groups and veteri-

dhoughton@petallianceorlando.org

of dedicated volunteer foster parents who

Pet Coalition — In September 2016,

narians. The group, consisting of more than

specifically want to foster kittens until

20 different agencies and rescue groups,

Virtual Kitten Nursery — While we

meets bi-monthly to discuss animal welfare

interact year round with kittens, the spring

need for more volunteers as the commit-

challenges and partnership opportunities.

months, known as “kitten season,” generate

ment can be between two and seven weeks

The focus is to provide opportunities to work

an urgent need among animal welfare agen-

per litter of kittens. For more information

together on global issues in animal welfare,

cies. The months between March and June

on this program, call 407-351-7722 or

such as ending pet homelessness, increas-

animal shelters see a large influx of kittens.

email srussell@petallianceorlando.com.

ing spay/neuter programs and decreasing

What is a virtual kitten nursery? It is an

breed discrimination.

Apartment Registry — In January,

they can be adopted. There is always a

innovative way to solve a problem that can

With these new initiatives we continue

put undue stress on the kittens and animal

our mission to create more caring commu-

shelters. The cost to build or repurpose an

nities with happier, healthier pets and

PAGO announced the Pet Apartment Reg-

area of the shelter to accommodate the

their families. Working together, we can

istry. The initiative partners with apart-

influx during kitten season is costly. Uti-

end pet homelessness! For more details

ment complexes around Central Florida to

lizing foster homes designed specifically

on all of our programs, please visit our

encourage them to create pet policies that

to support kittens until they are able to be

website at petallianceorlando.org.

112

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