Orlando Life January February 2015

HOT HOME DESIGN TRENDS ■ GRITS AT THE RITZ ■ WINTER PARK PLAYHOUSE

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SCOTT MAXWELL IS A TOUGH MUDDER Jan/Feb 2015

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CONTENTS

january/february

VOLUME 16

ISSUE 1

DEPARTMENTS 8 JAY BOYAR’S LIMELIGHT

Jay previews a tribute to the Rat Pack at the Winter Park Playhouse and looks ahead to Slava’s Snowshow at the Dr. Phill; the Shakes presents To Kill a Mockingbird; designer/artist Maya Lin delivers a talk at the Orlando Museum of Art; top trumpeters Arturo Sandoval and Chris Botti make separate visits to Bob Carr and Dr. Phill; and (Extra! Extra!)

Disney’s Newsies headlines at the busy Dr. Phill.

16 STYLE

Orlando’s Fun Spot provides a colorful backdrop for the latest trends in wedding gowns. by Marianne Ilunga • photographs by Rafael Tongol

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22 PROFILE

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We’ve got the dirt on Orlando Sentinel columnist Scott Maxwell. Turns out he’s not just a muckraker.

He’s a mudder. by Michael McLeod • photographs by Rafael Tongol

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39 ATTRACTIONS

The historic Winter Park Playhouse, undergoing a major facelift, is a family affair starring two veteran troupers. by Jay Boyar • photograph by Rafael Tongol

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42 FLAVOR

26 WEDDINGS GO SOCIAL

Whether they’re traditional or modern, formal or casual, weddings today are making increasing use of social media and the Internet. by Jessica Inman

SPECIAL SECTIONS

64 RESTLESS NATIVE

Our in-house columnist, Mike Thomas, temporarily turns the controls over to an in-house guest. by Laurie Thomas

47 REMODEL ORLANDO

Reporting from the world’s largest home-furnishing industry trade show, recently held in High Point, N.C., Karen highlights the latest trends in interior design. by Karen LeBlanc

54 EDUCATION GUIDE

A guide to some of Central Florida’s finest private and parochial schools, plus a list of the area’s higher-ed institutions.

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On the Cover: Lauren E of BMG Models wears a strapless chiffon gown with pleat bodice, $10,900, and a chiffon veil with flower appliques, $1,570. Both are

by Vera Wang and from The Collection Bridal, Park Avenue. Photograph by Rafael Tongol.

PHOTOS: (TOP AND BOTTOM LEFT AND BOTTOM RIGHT) RAFAEL TONGOL

FEATURE

Rona reviews Highball & Harvest, the Ritz-Carlton Orlando’s new and stylishly retro restaurant that specializes in homey yet high-end Southern cooking. by Rona Gindin • photographs by Rafael Tongol

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259-279 PM - OrlandoLive-Maylenfp.pdf

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Since 1968, Park Maitland has been growing the leaders of tomorrow.

We offer a proven foundation of excellence in education and provide children the tools they need to realize their dreams!

Maylen Dominguez Arlen C

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from the editor

FIRST

Pedestal Pundits COLUMNISTS STILL HAVE CLOUT, BUT THE GLORY DAYS ARE GONE.

W

e have two new columnists in this month’s magazine. No, we didn’t just go on a hiring spree. Both writers are simply making guest appearances. One is a sub. The other is a subject.

Our usual back-page columnist, Mike Thomas, asked someone to step in for him this month: his wife, Laurie. We also persuaded Scott Maxwell, the Orlando Sentinel’s flagship columnist, to sit still long enough for us to write a profile of him.

Columnists tend to be focused, thick-skinned, durable souls, much like their patron saint.

They do have one, you know.

Saint Simeon Stylites was a devout sixth century Syrian who had a column. A real one. Stylites (style-LIE-tease) was so dedicated to a solitary, reflective life that he retreated to the top of a pillar he had found among ancient ruins and lived on a platform atop it for — yikes! — 37 years. Followers brought him flat breads and goat milk as he penned spiritual essays for the emperor of the realm and lectured to crowds from his lofty perch.

Nobody’s putting pundits on pedestals these days, but over the years America has certainly had its share of columnists with clout. Ever wonder who came up with the word “stereotype”?

That coinage came from Walter Lippmann, who was a craftsman and confidante of presidents from Woodrow Wilson to LBJ and wrote a syndicated column for 40-odd years.

There was a recent retrospective in the New Yorker about a pair of brothers, Joseph and Stewart Alsop, who commandeered a national column that introduced the country to a few other words and phrases: “hawks and doves,” “the domino theory,” and “the light at the end of the tunnel.”

The brothers were so chummy with the country’s power brokers of the 1950s and ’60s — discussing policy with them at a regular Sunday-night dinner at Joseph’s home — that it prompted Henry Kissinger to say: “The hand that mixes the Georgetown martini is time and again the hand that guides the destiny of the Western world.”

I’m more impressed with the rapidly diminishing corps of local columnists who reflected the personality of a city or region — Mike Royko in Chicago, Herb Caen in San Francisco, Lewis Grizzard in Atlanta.

Once, at a journalism conference in Miami, I met Jimmy Breslin, who still writes, occasionally, for the New York Daily News. Though we were both there to deliver lectures, I was school-kid nervous when I approached him. I asked him to sign a textbook I use in my classes at Rollins College — one that includes his majestic account of President Kennedy’s funeral, which begins, famously, with a day-in-the-life passage about the workman assigned to dig the president’s grave.

I keep the book atop the desk in my office. Here’s how it’s signed: “For Mike McLeod: You show me this on a Florida morn 42 years later and I am, thankfully, too numb to understand I am effin’ old. Thanx, J. Breslin.

Take Note What’s SOCIAL

Follow us on twitter: @OrlandoLifeMag and Facebook at: facebook.com/orlandolifemagazine. We’re on Google+, Instagram, Tumblr and Pinterest too: pinterest. com/orlandolife/.

Insta

What’s ONLINE Check our expanded listing of arts organizations and their schedules of events for the upcoming season.

What you CAN DO See irrepressible local workaholic and do-it-all bombshell Blue Star — singer, dancer, actress, model, theater owner, philanthropist (did we leave anything out?) at The Abbey Jan. 29 through Feb. 8, where she will not only be choreographing Cabaret, but starring in it as Sally Bowles.

What’s ON DECK Central Florida just keeps on sprouting amazing people and places. In our March/ April “Simply the Best” issue, we’ll track down the most remarkable among them.

Michael McLeod Editor in Chief mmcleod@orlando-life.com 4

ORLANDO LIFE

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LIMELIGHT

jay boyar

Snow Place Like Slava’s a circus-arts master, plus a special effects flurry.

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end in the Clowns” meets “Let It Snow” in Slava’s Snowshow, a

kid-friendly cavalcade with an international vibe that’s coming to the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Feb. 17-March 1.

About those clowns: The show features a troupe of the silly souls, all decked out in green trench coats, oversized shoes and hats with enormous ear flaps. The whole production, in fact, was created by a clown — Slava Polunin, a Russian-born master jester who has performed with Cirque du Soleil.

The show’s snow falls mainly in the finale, when a raging blizzard engulfs the entire theater. Naturally, the flakes are both artificial and imaginary, being composed of tissue paper and, well, dreams. There are also large gusts of stagecraft fog and huge, colorful plastic balls that sail from the stage to the audience.

Slava’s Snowshow started in Moscow in 1993 and has since been

presented in more than 80 cities including Los Angeles, Paris, Rome, Hong Kong and Rio de Janeiro. Beginning in 2004, it had a two-year run Off-Broadway in New York.

The New York Times has called the performance “powerful in its ability to induce waves of giggles and sighs of pleasure.” But there’s more to Slava’s Snowshow than snowy spectacle and clowning around.

Variety detected an “existential humanism” in the production, reminiscent of the pathos of Charlie Chaplin and Marcel Marceau. An intriguing forecast, that.

Visit drphillipscenter.org for further information. ■ Jay Boyar, arts editor of Orlando Life, has written about film and travel for the Orlando Sentinel and numerous other newspapers. He’s the author of Films to Go: 100 Memorable Movies for Travelers & Others and a contributor to Reel Romance: The Lovers’ Guide to the 100 Best Date Movies.

A RING-A-DING RAT PACK ROMP Back in the 1960s, the Rat Pack rescued an entire orphanage in Robin and the 7 Hoods Hoods. In the original Ocean’s Eleven film, they robbed five Vegas casinos in a single night.

But that debonair, devil-may-care trio — Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. — are up against an even greater challenge in The Rat Pack Lounge, a musical comedy that will be presented onstage at the Winter Park Playhouse Jan. 16-Feb. 14.

Its premise is that the Rat Pack, now deceased, decide to return to earth for just one night to fulfill a promise once made by their leader — that would be Ol’ Blue Eyes, of course.

“It’s very Heaven Can Wait,” says Rob Anderson, the show’s director.

When the Rat Packers descend to earth from heaven (or “the big casino,” as Sinatra often called it), they do so by inhabiting the bodies of customers at a bar called (what else?) the Rat Pack Lounge. So, obviously, they won’t look like themselves — only act that way, at least a little.

“We’re not doing impressions of them,” Anderson points out. “My goal is to bring the mannerisms of those individuals into these characters.”

The show’s cast of five includes not only the actors cast as Sammy, Dino and the Chairman of the Board, but also those playing the bar’s owner — and someone called Angie. Would that be honorary Rat Packer Angie Dickinson? Maybe.

The Rat Pack Lounge was written by James Hindman and Ray Roderick, with musical arrangements by John Glaudini. The show features more than 30 hits from the Rat Pack songbook.

You’ll hear everything from “High Hopes” to “The Candy Man” to that standard of standards, “Volare.”

If things go according to plan, The Rat Pack Lounge will be the first show to be presented in the newly expanded Winter Park Playhouse. The performance space shouldn’t look too different (that will have to wait until next year), but the lobby will be three times its former size and there’ll be two additional restrooms, as well as new offices and increased storage space. (See my story, page 39) The facility may be growing, but its mission — to present lighthearted musical comedies — won’t be changing any time soon. And The Rat Pack Lounge, with its cuckoo, swingin’ style, ought to fit right in.

Visit winterparkplayhouse.org for further information.

ORLANDO-LIFE.COM

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LIMELIGHT

plan on it

Howie Mandel

Hard Rock Live Orlando Jan. 4

The popular actor and comedian-turned-TV gameshow host returns to his standup roots.

hardrock.com/live/locations/orlando Linkin Park

Amway Center Jan. 5

Winner of two Grammy Awards, with 60 million albums sold, the California rock band has an Orlando stop on its worldwide Hunting Party Tour. Guests include Rise Against and Of Mice & Men.

amwaycenter.com Otronicon

Orlando Science Center Jan. 16-19

Nerds and geeks flock to this annual technology event, celebrating its 10th year, to check out the latest video-game experiences as well as medical and military simulators.

otronicon.org Mike Epps

CFE Arena Feb. 6

The versatile actor/rapper/writer/comedian, slated to play Richard Pryor in an upcoming biopic, brings his Real Deal Tour to UCF. Guests include Bruce Bruce, Gary Owen and Adele Givens.

cfearena.com

Paul Jacobs

Knowles Memorial Chapel, Rollins College Feb. 13

Central Florida’s biggest and best pipe organ gets a workout from one of the country’s top organists, a Grammy winner who also happens to be chairman of the Julliard School’s organ department.

bachfestivalflorida.org

StarLite Film Festival

The Garden Theatre Feb. 26-March 1

The annual celebration of independent “microbudget” films that are made for $200,000 or less returns for its fifth year.

starlitefilmfest.com

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LIMELIGHT

theater

Atticus, Scout, Jem and Boo Remain as Relevant as Ever

PHOTO: LANDON ST. GORDON

Published four years before the groundbreaking 1964 Civil Rights Act, To Kill a Mockingbird remains

the go-to literary classic on racial injustice. Harper Lee’s one and only published work won a Pulitzer Prize, spawned a beloved, Oscar-winning movie starring Gregory Peck and, in the ensuing decades, sold more than 30 million copies.

The book also inspired a 1990 theatrical adaptation by Christopher Sergel. The stage version will be presented by the Orlando Shakespeare Theater in honor of the Civil Rights Act’s 50th anniversary. Directed by Thomas Ouellette, it opens in the Shakes’ Margeson Theater on Jan. 21 and runs through March 8.

At the heart of the story — about a black field hand falsely accused of raping a white woman in the Depression-era South — is the relationship between defense lawyer Atticus Finch, played by Warren Kelly, and his daughter, Scout, played by Kennedy Joy Foristall. Jamil A.C. Mangan plays the field hand, Tom Robinson The play “succeeds in telling an adult story through the eyes of children,” says Jim Helsinger, the Shakes’ artistic director. “For most of us who read this book in school, it evokes a sense of nostalgia that will be exciting to revisit on stage.”

Visit orlandoshakes.org for more information.

— Ailin Le Bellot

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LIMELIGHT

music

All hail the trumpet, which in one form or an-

other has been around for more than 3,500 years. It’s not only one of the oldest of musical instruments, it’s also among the most versatile — as familiar to jazz aficionados as it is to classical music purists.

But mastering the modern trumpet isn’t easy, and great soloists are rare. Nevertheless, two of the world’s best — and bestknown — trumpet masters will be performing in Orlando in separate February concerts just six days apart.

Arturo Sandoval, the 65-year-old, Cuban-born prodigy who has 10 Grammys and a Presidential Medal of Freedom under his belt, will play matinee and evening performances at the Bob Carr Theater on Feb. 7.

Chris Botti, who will appear at the Dr.

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Arturo Sandoval

Phillips Center for the Performing Arts on Feb. 13, has only one Grammy to his name. But the 55-year-old native of Portland, Ore., is currently the world’s topselling jazz instrumentalist.

Botti, who has played with legends ranging from Frank Sinatra and Joni Mitchell to Paul Simon and Sting, shifts between jazz and pop, often fusing the two.

Meanwhile Sandoval, who has recorded with Dizzy Gillespie, Woody Herman and Rod Stewart, alternates between jazz and classical. His stature is such that he was the subject of a 2000 made-for-TV movie, For Love or Country: The Arturo Sandoval Story, starring Andy Garcia as Sandoval.

Visit drphillipscenter.org for more information.

— Harry Wessel

PHOTO: courtesy orlando venues

It’s Trumpeters Times Two In Separate Orlando Gigs

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LIMELIGHT

theater

Extra! Extra! ‘Newsies’ Presses On! to take on a powerful newspaper magnate. That sums up the plot of Disney’s Newsies, the musical based on a movie based on an 1899 strike by New York City newsboys.

The fact that the 1992 Newsies was a box-office flop, and that the actual newsboy strike was more obscure and less successful than the feel-good movie let on, is beside the point.

The theatrical version two decades later was an out-and-out Broadway hit, winning 2012 Tony Awards for its score and its choreography, and spawning the current nationwide tour courtesy of Broadway Across America.

The touring show opens at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing on Jan. 27 and runs through Feb. 1. The singing and dancing extravaganza features music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Jack Feldman and book by Harvey Fierstein.

Fierstein, a multiple Tony Award winner, acknowledged that many liberties were taken with actual events, but he told the New York Times that the musical captured the strike’s central meaning: “The power of the individual. And the power of we.”

Visit drphillipscenter.org for more information.

— Harry Wessel

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PHOTO: courtesy broadway across america

In a classic David-and-Goliath tale, plucky, underprivileged street kids band together

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LIMELIGHT

event

At OMA, a Memorable Architect’s Fluid Tribute to Natural Habitats

PHOTO: WALTER SMITH

It’s been more than 30 years since an under-

graduate college student burst into national prominence by winning a nationwide competition to design the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. Maya Lin, then a 21-year-old senior at Yale, beat out 1,440 other submissions, many from prominent architects and designers. The design itself — a V-shaped, black granite wall embedded in the earth with the names of nearly 58,000 fallen soldiers — outraged many, as did the fact that Lin was of Asian descent.

The “blind” competition had required designs to be submitted by number instead of name. Lin, who will appear at the Orlando Museum of Art on Jan. 29 as part of the

Winter Park Institute speaker series, later said she never would have won otherwise.

It wasn’t until the memorial opened in November 1982, and proved an instant hit among both veterans and the general public, that the controversy died down. Since then, it’s been widely regarded as one of the world’s most popular and emotionally powerful monuments.

And as it turned out, Lin was no one-hit wonder. She’s become an outspoken environmentalist while creating a wide array of artistic and architectural work.

Several of her pieces devoted to biodiversity and habitats will be on display at OMA from Jan. 31 to May 10 during an exhibition entitled A History of Water. The museum,

which is co-sponsoring Lin’s appearance, will offer a free preview of the exhibit immediately following her talk.

Visit rollins.edu/wpi for more information.

— Harry Wessel

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STYLE

Thrill Ride Bride

FOR THE UPS AND DOWNS OF THAT SPECIAL DAY styling by Marianne Ilunga photographs by Rafael Tongol hair and makeup by Elsie Knab

Given that every wedding’s a roller coaster, it made perfect sense to us to take Lauren E from BMG Models to Fun Spot AmericaOrlando to show off this year’s bridal fashions. Sure enough, the park’s coaster makes a perfect backdrop for her plunging V-neck lace bridal gown with ribbon tie straps, $9,476, by Inbal Dror; and fishnet birdcage veil, $349, by Bloom Bazaar. Both are from The Collection Bridal, Park Avenue.

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photo assistant: CHRIS RANK

Lauren wears a lace and satin strapless high-low gown, $5,906; and a jeweled, flower-detail belt, $830; both by Rivini by Rita Vinieris. Her peep-toe satin pumps with brooch detail, $256, are by Benjamin Adam. Her jeweled hair sprays, $495 for set of three, and statement stud earrings, $285, are by Erin Cole. Her pearl and Swarovski crystal silver bracelet, $642, is by Maria Elena. All are from Solutions Bridal, The Shoppes at Millenia.

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STYLE

Lauren wears an Empire-Waist strapless satin pantsuit with pocket details, $1,990; and detachable satin chapel train, $1,320; by Rosa Clara. Her oval-shaped, threebrooch Swarovski crystal bracelet, $525; and oval-shaped Swarovski crystal chandelier earrings, $345; are by Erin Cole. All are from The Collection Bridal, Park Avenue

Lauren wears a full tulle strapless mermaid gown with beaded paisley motif, $8,985, by Ines De Santo. Her flower-detailed Swarovski headpiece, $900, is

by Maria Elena. Both are from Solutions Bridal at The Shoppes at Millenia.

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STYLE

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STYLE

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Lauren wears a strapless wide-leg jumpsuit with a sleeveless embroidered tunic, $4,805,

by Rivini by Rita Vinieris from Solutions Bridal at The Shoppe at Millenia.

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Lauren wears a strapless mint tiered-tulle gown with sweetheart neckline, $5,500,

by Monique Lhuillier from The Collection Bridal, Park Avenue.

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PROFILE

Maxwell’s Smarts

The Sentinel’s flagship columnist knows how to navigate.

by Michael McLeod • photographs by Rafael Tongol

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cott Maxwell is an early bird. He’s been able to get by on five

or six hours of sleep ever since he was a kid.

It’s a good thing, too.

On workday mornings he sets the timer on his automatic coffee maker for 4:50, rising a few minutes later to savor a cup and work out. Then he leaves the two-story Audubon Park home that he shares with his wife and two children and heads for the downtown newsroom of the Orlando Sentinel to write a thrice-weekly column called “Taking Names.”

And that’s just for starters.

In a typical workweek he reads and responds to as many as 500 reader emails and keeps up with posts to Twitter and his Facebook page, which is maxed out at the limit of 5,000 followers. He’ll check in as a once-a-week guest of acerbic talk-radio host Jim Philips on the “Philips Phile” and turn up for a talking-head stint on one of Fox 35’s

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local news segments.

He’ll also make at least one public appearance, usually on behalf of a worthy cause.

On a recent, particularly active month-long stretch, he delivered an impassioned speech in honor of outgoing circuit court judge Belvin Perry at a meeting of legal-aid lawyers; was upstaged by an impish little girl who spoke via a computer at United Cerebral Palsy’s annual fundraising breakfast; emceed the anniversary celebration of the Winter Park Day Nursery, which has served underprivileged fami-

Maxwell, a great admirer of Belvin Perry, jumped at the chance to present the former circuit court judge with an award at a meeting of Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida.

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PROFILE

Maxwell says neither of his children — daughter Cameron, 14, nor son Chase, 11 — are especially impressed that he is a prominent local columnist. He and his wife, Cyndee, were students at the University of North Carolina when they met at a fraternity mixer. lies for 75 years; and danced to sock-hop music with a Catholic nun, Sister Gail Grimes, at a dinner celebrating her retirement from the Apopka farm workers ministry she help to found.

He’s a soft touch for charities, and not only attends galas, but winds up bidding for things he doesn’t really need — as evidenced, most recently, by a double-wide Adirondack chair and a mini-cooler, both with “Yuengling Beer” logos emblazoned on them, which for weeks have been sitting, unused, in his living room.

At 42, Maxwell is a holdover from a generation of journalists who 24

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spent their days barricaded in newsrooms, burrowing through the news of the day and seeing no particular reason to project a sunny disposition while doing so. But he also has a bit of Carolina ham in him. While he was working towards his journalism degree at the University of North Carolina, he not only sang in an a cappella group called the Clef Hangers, but acted in a dinner theater to earn spending money.

That writer/performer combination has helped him to become both a valuable community resource and the Sentinel’s de facto public face. He’s a dapper dresser, chipper and urbane, with the glinting smile, boyish good looks and irreverent patter of a talk-show host.

Seeing him in action on his rounds around town, you might be inclined to dismiss him as a fluffy figurehead, further evidence of the waning clout and gravitas of newspapers in the Internet age.

But that would mean you haven’t read his column.

JANUary/FEBRUARY 2015

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Sentinel editors originally envisioned “Taking Names” as a lighter-than-air compilation chronicling the activities of local notables.

Maxwell took the job, but never took to it.

Writing about boy bands and millionaire weddings creeped him out. The only good memories he has from those days are the occasional legitimate scoops that came his way — as when he landed a breakthrough interview with defiant tax-dodging movie star Wesley Snipes.

Eventually, he successfully lobbied to broaden the reach of the column to include coverage of human-interest stories, charitable causes and, perhaps most important of all, politics.

“I think Scott’s range is not only broad but deep,’’ says his editor, Mike Lafferty. “He can pretty much write about anything — but politics is something that he really seems to enjoy digging into.”

“I found out that politicians hate to be laughed at,” says Maxwell. “So I use that. I use that a lot.”

He called Florida House Republicans hypocrites for shooting down efforts to improve health care for the poor while taking advantage of one of the most generous health-care packages in America. (They responded not with legislation, but with a token gesture: raising their own premiums, just a tad.)

He railed against Speaker of the House Chris Dorworth for accepting tens of thousands of dollars from public-interest groups.

(Dorworth was voted out of office soon afterward.)

One of Maxwell’s trademarks is to accumulate some of the more combative emails and phone calls he receives, then deflect and parry them in his column with droll, understated put-downs.

“He confronts people with such grace that they don’t even realize they’ve been insulted,’’ says a loyal reader, Linda Manzonelli, a retired Orange County Public Schools teacher for the visually handicapped. “He gives you bad news with so much wit and charm that he makes you smile and laugh and forget how angry you are about things ORLANDO-LIFE.COM

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you have no control over.”

For all his subtlety and debonair ways, Maxwell has a measure of macho. He recently joined a group of old college buddies to run a grueling “Tough Mudder” obstacle course that included — seriously — occasional jolts of electricity along the way.

On at least one occasion, Maxwell applied a comparable shock treatment to one of his critics.

After writing a column in which he argued in favor of gay marriage, he got a phone mail message from a man whose homophobic rant was both graphic and obscene. Maxwell tracked down a phone number and dialed it.

“I’ll be honest with you. I was shaking. A part of me was hoping he wouldn’t answer.”

But he did. Maxwell made the man listen as he read the vicious email back to him, word for word. Then they spoke for a while.

By the end of the conversation, the man had apologized.

Maxwell’s main escape from the heat of daily deadlines is taking trips with his family: daughter Cameron, 14; son Chase, 11; and wife Cyndee, a pharmacist at the VA Clinic.

Mainly, they take cruises. One of the key attractions: Cell phones don’t work at sea.

In an era when anybody with a laptop can opine to the world at large, professional columnists are an endangered species. Eight years ago, the Association of Opinion Journalists had 549 members. Today it’s less than half that.

“You wonder about the future,” says Maxwell. “That’s why I say I was born a generation too late. But I’m addicted to what I do. I think it’s both a curse and a dream come true.

And I firmly, firmly believe in what I do.

“I know for a fact there are people who will not read the ‘boring’ politics story that comes across the wire. But if I can show them the face of a kid who is getting hurt because they are not getting proper care, I can make a difference.” n

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TO THEE I W

earing a Kenneth Cole gown and a broad smile, Erica

Landis married Shawn Sickel in a spring wedding earlier this year at the Tuscany Ballroom at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes.

She is Jewish. He is Japanese-American. To honor their respective cultural bloodlines, they blended timeworn customs from both into the ceremony.

It pleased the bride’s family to see their daughter married beneath a beautifully decorated chuppah. The groom’s family felt honored when the couple added traditional Japanese toasts to the parents during the ceremony. And both sides of the aisle were entertained when, rather than crushing a glass with his heel for luck, as would have been the case in a Jewish wedding, the groom stomped on a bottle of sake — one that had been carefully hollowed out so it would break.

But there was one final touch, involving a laptop in Tsukuba, Japan, that bridged the cross-cultural gap — as well as several time zones — most dramatically.

Shawn’s grandmother, aunt, uncle and cousin, who couldn’t travel to Orlando for the ceremony, instead were able to follow the ceremony via Skype from their home computer. The RitzCarlton’s AV service ensured two-way Wi-Fi access via a camera attached to the chuppah. That way, the little group on the other side of the world could watch the ceremony — and Shawn could talk to his grandmother afterward as the crowd looked on.

“There were 240 people at the wedding,” says Erica’s grandmother, Kate, “and I do not think there was a dry eye in the house.”

Connecting with absent friends and family members is just one of numerous ways in which modern matrimony makes the most of the World Wide Web. “Skype is definitely a request I’ve seen more of,” says Michael D’Eugenio, senior manager of Meetings and Special Events at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando. “Travel is expensive nowadays. Not everybody can make it, and it seems that people usually don’t get married in their hometown any more.”

For that same reason, Internet options play a key role not just during the ceremonies, but long before them.

“It has been a game-changer,” says Lisa Stoner, wedding planner for the Sickel wedding and owner of E Events Design in Win26

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SOMETIMES, THE MOST IMPORTANT RECEPTION LINE IS YOUR INTERNET CONNECTION.

by Jessica Inman

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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I

Web ORLANDO-LIFE.COM

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ter Park. Stoner routinely uses Pinterest to facilitate the flow of ideas with the wedding parties.

“Everyone is so transient these days,” she says. “My brides are more successful than ever, and so they’re traveling for work. Maybe their families don’t live here, and so it’s a really great way to keep everyone together during the planning process.”

Facetime and tweet chats through @FSBridal are another planning staple these days, especially for destination weddings.

“People are able to engage in real time with us, which they love to do,” says Laure Hitzig, director of catering at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando. Four Seasons also uses software called Social Tables to create a floorplan and determine seating arrangements over the Internet.

But like any set of tools, the Internet should be used with caution. Weddings, after all, are high-pressure affairs, fraught with assorted catastrophes, personality clashes and touchy matters of tact and tradition.

One infamous example of a digital gaffe: A groom who whipped out his cell phone at the altar, just after vows were exchanged and before he kissed the bride, to update his marital status on Facebook. Tacky — though not as tacky as the frustrated bride who texted: “My bridesmaids are such bitches I can’t believe them!”

Then there’s the matter of who sees what, and when — an age-old delicacy of matrimonial rites. You don’t want the groom 28

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seeing the bride before the ceremony, and that includes seeing photos posted online. There are other, less obvious examples that require social networking judiciousness, too.

Suzanne Graffhan, co–owner of the Winter Park Wedding Chapel, caters to an international clientele — people who come to Orlando from other countries, mainly the United Kingdom, to be married. Those brides-and-grooms-to-be frequently request Skyping and streaming arrangements so their friends back home can witness the ceremony. But not always.

“Quite often our clients will have a second reception when they get back home,” Graffhan says, “so sometimes the bride will tell us she doesn’t want us to post any pictures online. She’ll say, ‘I’m wearing the same dress again, and I don’t want anybody over there to see it.’”

Along those lines, it’s important to come up with a social media policy early on, and stick to it.

One choice that’s best made early is whether or not to use your Facebook page to talk about your betrothal and wedding plans.

Assuming you’re not going to invite everyone you have friended, you risk alienating those who aren’t on the guest list by chatting about your choice of canapés.

Says Hitzig: “I remember a bride who was so excited about getting engaged she posted it right away on Facebook. She hadn’t told her parents yet, so they found out through Facebook. We’re very quick to share on social media; we have to remember people’s feelings when we do that.”

The safest option: Create a Web page and send a link to it when you mail out your invitations.

One oft-violated area of discrepancy: Guests who are in a hurry

PHOTO: COURTESY Winter Park Wedding Chapel

At the Winter Park Wedding Chapel, which caters to continental clients who come to Orlando from Europe for wedding/honeymoon affairs, the pews are often shared with a virtual guest.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

12/15/14 11:10:53 AM

PHOTOS: COURTESY Root Photography rootweddings.com

PHOTO: COURTESY Winter Park Wedding Chapel

At the cross-cultural wedding of Erica Landis, who’s Jewish, and Shawn Sickle, who’s Japanese-American, the groom crushed a bottle of sake for luck — then visited with his grandmother, who had watched the ceremony via a Skype connection to the RitzCarlton Orlando from her home in Tsukuba, Japan.

to snap pictures of the wedding and text them to friends come off as paparazzi — and get in the way of the wedding’s professional photographer.

“As soon as the ceremony starts, you have people leaning over into the aisle and standing up with these mobile devices, trying to take pictures,” says Stoner. “Then what happens is, your professional photographer has an image with a dozen or so people with iPads and iPhones. So it’s not a clean, ethereal shot.”

But the pictures that friends and family members take at more appropriate moments can become treasured mementos. Establish ORLANDO-LIFE.COM

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a hashtag for your wedding, which enables guests to group photos, tweets and posts about the big day together. As a result, the bride and groom can easily access a unique perspective to their wedding, as told by their guests.

Stoner suggests the couple create this hashtag early on. “That way, even during the planning process, wedding guests can see behind-the-scenes pictures of the couple at a cake meeting or at a floral meeting.”

Guests also need to be careful with their posts. “Unless a directive has come from the couple themselves,” Stoner says, “you don’t tag them and you don’t post them; you should have their express permission before doing that.”

Similarly, don’t post unflattering photos of the couple.

Sure, nobody uses snail-mail any more. Nonetheless, planners say it’s inappropriate to send email invitations or thank you’s. “I just think that’s a major faux pas,” Green says. “But it is happening.”

It’s fine, however, to ask guests to RSVP via the Internet. You can design your Website to facilitate this.

And finally, a tip for brides and grooms: Snap a selfie — then put your phone away. Enjoy your day. Allow the photographer and your friends to capture special moments. Your job is to simply savor the celebration. In person. n ORLANDO LIFE

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12/15/14 11:11:06 AM

O

Wedding e e Resource GUIDE

rlando Life has been a trusted resource for brides and grooms for more than a decade. The following pages list some of the region’s top wedding and event service providers.

CAKES

Anna Cakes 407-792-8096 annacakes.com Bake Me a Cake 407-830-9006 bakemeacake.net Blue Bird Bake Shop 407-228-3822 bluebirdbakeshop.com B350 Degrees Pastry Shop 732-259-8266 b350degrees.com Cha Cha’s Delights 305-790-7249 chachasdelights.com Cupcake Crazy 407-804-0229 cupcakecrazyorlando.com Cut the Cake 407-265-2205 cutthecakeinc.com It’s Tasty Too 407-920-1945 itstastytoo.com Michael Anthony Cakes 407-453-2064 michaelanthonycakes.com P Is for Pie Bake Shop 407-745-4743 crazyforpies.com

Party Flavors Custom Cakes 407-578-2082 orlandocustomcakes.com Raphsodic Bakery 407-704-8615 raphsodic.com Sprinkles Custom Cakes 407-622-7202 sprinklescakes.net Stay Calm Cupcake Truck 386-366-1737 staycalmcupcake.com

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The Sugar Suite 321-972-8650 thesugarsuite.com

The Alfond Inn 407-998-8090 thealfondinn.com

Two Sweets Bake Shop 407-476-8933 lovetwosweets.com

A&H’s Maitland Art Center 407-539-2181 artandhistory.org

The Yum Yum Cupcake Food Truck 407-494-9336 theyumyumcupcaketruck.com

Bella Collina 407-469-4911 bellacollina.com

CATERING

Arthur’s Creative Events & Catering 407-331-1993 arthurscatering.com Collins Catering 407-370-6960 collinscateringfla.com Cuisiniers Catered Cuisine & Events 407-975-8763 cuisinierscater.com John Michael Weddings & Special Events 407-894-6671 johnmichaelevents.com Millenia Catering 407-648-2296 milleniacatering.com Puff ‘n Stuff Catering 407-629-7833 puffnstuff.com Tim Webber: The Coordinator 407-649-9190 thecoordinatorinc.com

CEREMONY & RECEPTION LOCATIONS

Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens 407-647-6294 polasek.org

Bice Ristorante 407-503-1415 orlando.bicegroup.com Bohemian Hotel Celebration 407-566-6000 celebrationhotel.com Bravo! Cucina Italiana 407-351-5880 bravoitalian.com Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa 866-397-6516 buenavistapalace.com

Caribe Royale 407-238-8000 thecaribeorlando.com Casa Feliz 407-628-8200 casafeliz.us Castle Hotel 407-996-3109 castlehotelorlando.com Charles Hosmer Morse Museum 407-645-5311 morsemuseum.org Courtyard at Lake Lucerne 407-648-5188 orlandohistoricinn.com Disney Fairy Tale Weddings 321-939-4610 disneyweddings.com

Dubsdread Ballroom & Catering 407-650-0100 / 407-650-9558 taproomatdubsdread.com English Gardens 407-644-3444 englishgardenweddings.com Estate House at Cypress Grove 407-749-0792 cypressgroveestatehouse.com EVO (Event Venue Orlando) 321-662-3746 eventvenueorlando.com

Four Seasons Resort Orlando 407-313-7777 fourseasons.com/orlando/weddings Gaylord Palms Hotel 407-586-2270 gaylordhotels.com Grand Bohemian Hotel 407-313-9000 grandbohemianhotel.com Hard Rock Hotel 407-503-2100 hardrockhotelorlando.com Hard Rock LIVE 407-351-7625 hardrock.com/live2 Harry P. Leu Gardens 407-246-2620 leugardens.org Heaven Event Center 407-488-1800 heaven8240.com

Hilton Orlando Hotel 407-313-8400 thehiltonorlando.com Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress 407-239-3955 grandcypress.hyatt.com Hyatt Regency Orlando (formerly Peabody Orlando) 407-284-1234 orlando.regency.hyatt..com Kraft Azalea Gardens 407-599-3334 cityofwinterpark.org Loews Portofino Bay Hotel 407-503-1000 loewshotels.com Loews Royal Pacific Resort 407-503-3122 loewshotels.com Maison & Jardin 407-862-4410 maisonjardin.com The Mezz 407-704-6261 artfulevents.com Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate 407-390-6664 omnihotels.com Orange County Regional History Center 407-836-8500 thehistorycenter.org Orlando Museum of Art 407-896-4231 omart.org Orlando Science Center 407-514-2000 osc.org

Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek 407-597-3600 hilton.com/bonnet-creek

Paradise Cove Orlando 407-239-6939 paradisecoveorlando.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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Park Plaza Gardens 407-645-2475 parkplazagardens.com

Reunion Resort 866-880-5653 reunionresort.com/orlandoweddings Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes 407-206-2400 the-ritz-carlton.grandelakes.com

Rocco’s Italian Grille 407-644-7770 roccositaliangrille.com

Rosen Centre Hotel 407-996-9840 rosencentre.com

CCH Weddings + Events 407-228-1901 cchweddings.com

Rosen Plaza Hotel 407-996-9700 rosenplaza.com

Rosen Shingle Creek 407-996-9933 rosenshinglecreek.com Timacuan Golf & Country Club 407-321-0010 golftimacuan.com

E Events Design 407-366-6640 eeventdesign.com Waldorf Astoria Orlando 407-597-5500 waldorfastoriaorlando.com Windermere Country Club 407-876-1112 windermeregolf.com Winter Park Racquet Club 407-644-2226 wprc.net Winter Park Wedding Chapel 407-539-1538 winterparkweddingchapel.com

Tuscawilla Country Club 407-366-1851 tuscawillacc.com

Villas of Grand Cypress 407-239-4700 grandcypress.com

Universal Orlando Weddings & Celebrations 888-331-9108 uomeetingsandevents.com

COORDINATING & CONSULTING Blush by Brandee Gaar 407-394-8892 blushbbg.com

Elegant Weddings of Orlando 407-574-4851 elegantweddingsoforlando.com A Flair for Affairs 407-896-1476 aflairforaffairs.com Jamie M. O’Donnell Event Planning & Design 321-206-6318 jamiemodonnell.com Joie de Vie Weddings & Events 407-296-4008 joiedevieevents.com Just Events!

407-259-2388 justeventsgroup.com

StyleHouse Weddings & Events 407-329-4220 stylehouseweddings.com Tickled Pink Brides 407-455-0500 tickledpinkbrides.com 27 Miracles Wedding Consulting 407-905-5454 27miraclesbyrosie.com Weddings Inc. 407-964-1215 weddingsincorlando.com Weddings Unique 407-629-7111 weddingsunique.com Wonderful Weddings 407-629-1849 wonderfulweddingsorlando.com

DECORATING

Birchmore Group 407-478-1616 birchmoregroup.com

Michele Butler Events 407-365-4729 michelebutlerevents.com

Don’t miss a golden opportunity for romance.

“Best Overall Restaurant” - Orlando Sentinel’s 16th Annual Foodie Awards (2013)

“Best Service” - Orlando Magazine’s 2014 Dining Awards

2014 Golden Spoon Award Winner - Florida Trend Magazine

thevenetianroom.com 407-238-8060

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ORLANDO LIFE

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simply stunning

© Kristen

© William Arthur Photography

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© Marc Harmon Photography

© Revelo Studios’

S AY I DO TO REUN IO N R E SO R T

© Kristen Weaver Photography

© Unrue Photography’

SPECTACULAR SETTINGS & BREATHTAKING VIEWS

© William Arthur Photography

Home of the Wedding of the Year Contest

Whether you are planning an extravagant black tie affair or an intimate celebration, Reunion Resort offers an array of venues for your special day. With a variety of indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception locations, Reunion is sure to make your wedding day dreams come true.

VISIT OUR BLOG: ReunionResort.com/WeddingBlog

877.577.0829 | REUNIONRESORT.COM 7593 GATHERING DRIVE, KISSIMMEE, FL 34747

ography

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12/15/14 1:14:36 PM

Wedding e e Resource GUIDE

A Chair Affair 386-479-4308 chairaffairrentals.com

Crystal Lake DJ Productions 407-248-1140 crystallakedj.com

Carly Ane’s Floral Studio 407-294-7978 weddingsbycarlyanes.com

Windermere Flowers & Gifts 407-296-9002 windermereflowersandgifts.com

Get Lit Productions 407-615-4418 getlitproductions.com

Day Entertainment 407-601-3962 dayentertains.com

GIFTS

Kamini Design 407-388-1427 kaminidesign.com

Rhythm of the Night Entertainment 407-466-1570 therhythmofthenight.com

Dream Designs Florist & Wedding Boutique 407-896-1199 dreamdesignsflorist.com

Max King Events 407-704-7944 maxkingevents.com

Tagas Event & Production Services 407-826-5833

Occasions by Shangri-la 407-355-7700 occasionsbyshangrila.com

FLORISTS

Atmospheres Floral and Décor 407-203-8827 atmospheresfloral.com

Suzanne Nichols Design 407-678-9651 suzannenichols.com

Blooms Of Winter Park 407-975-4935 flowersinwinterpark.com

ENTERTAINMENT Al Dee Productions 321-214-0834 adpentertainment.com

Blossoms Orlando 407-463-4272 blossomsorlando.com

The Flower Lady 407-709-8357 yourflowerlady.com Greenery Productions 407-363-9151 greeneryproductions.com Lee Forrest Design 407-770-0440 leeforrestdesign.com Lee James Floral Designs 407-897-5300 leejamesfloral.com Peddles 407-339-0663 peddles.com Raining Roses Productions 407-854-3500 rainingroses.biz

True Envy Salon 407-286-4857 trueenvysalon.com

JEWELERS

Owen Allen 407-740-8838 owenallen.com

Bay Hill Jewelers 407-226-6882 / 321-422-0948 bayhilljewelers.com

Walk on Water 407-539-2079 / 407-805-0477 walkonwaterfl.com

Be On Park 407-644-1106 beonpark.com

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Cartier 407-248-9886 cartier.com

Marigold Scott 517-667-0722 marigoldscott.com

Jewels by Peter B 407-647-5581 jewelsbypeterb.com

MKH Weddings 407-276-7703 mkhweddings.com

Reynolds & Company Jewelers 407-645-2278 reynoldsjeweler.com

Primera Salon + Spa 407-333-3095 primerasalonandspa.com

Tiffany & Co. 407-351-3133 tiffany.com

Splash of Color Salon 407-614-8900 facebook.com/splashofcolorsalon

“Award Winning Cuisine” — 2014 Silver Spoon Award

Rehearsal Dinners Wedding Receptions

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Courtyard Receptions Bridal Showers

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W inter Park 400 South Orlando Avenue s 407-644-7770 Reservations online at www.roccositaliangrille.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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Scott Watt Photography 407-308-5211 scottwattphotography.com Studio222 Photography 407-808-7225 studio222photography.com

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John J. Unrue Photography 407-629-5292 unruephoto.com

STYLISTS

Katie [Meehan] Crawford Photography 407-574-4852 katiemeehan.com

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A Triple Crown Limousine 407-660-0060 orlandosuvlimousine.com VIP Transportation Group 407-822-7755 viptg.com

9:41:49 AM

VIDEOGRAPHERS Cinematique Films 407-810-0627

David’s Bridal 407-355-9811 / 407-767-8215 davidsbridal.com

Lasting Blueprint Productions 407-536-8424 lastingblueprint.com

Formal Spot 407-578-1896 formalspot.com

Pro One Video 407-852-0788 proonevideo.com

Solutions Bridal 407-647-8666 solutionsbridal.com

SugarPop Films 407-575-7565 sugarpopfilms.com

WEDDING ATTIRE: TUXEDOS, FORMALWEAR

WEDDING ATTIRE: BRIDAL Brides by Demetrios 407-869-5277 demetriosbride.com

Calvet Couture Bridal 407-245-7000 calvetcouturebridal.com The Collection Bridal 407-740-6003 thecollectionbridal.com

Bloomingdale’s 407-264-2400 bloomingdales.com Jos. A. Bank Various Locations Josbank.com

Men’s Wearhouse Various Locations menswearhouse.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

12/15/14 1:13:56 PM

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7OL_Jan-Feb15_Wedding_Guide.indd 37

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Photographer Damon Tucci

U

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ATTRACTIONS

Theater founders Roy Alan and Heather Alexander are old-school troupers.

Come On, Get Happy Escapism is the message at the Winter Park Playhouse, which has a musical mission and a family feel.

Not surprisingly, people love it.

by Jay Boyar • photograph by Rafael Tongol

O

pening night at almost any theater can feel pretty cozy.

The cast’s friends and family are in the house and good vibes fill the air. It’s the same at the Winter Park Playhouse, only more so. Much more so.

Just before November’s opening-night performance of Isn’t It Romantic?, co-founder and director Heather Alexander took the stage and spent a full 15 minutes greeting the sold-out house. She whipped ORLANDO-LIFE.COM

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up applause for audience members celebrating birthdays and raved about upcoming productions.

Then, throughout the show (a tribute to Rodgers and Hart), people clapped enthusiastically after, and sometimes during, the musical numbers. Some (unfortunately!) even hummed along with the cast.

“I love the family atmosphere,” says Rob Anderson, a director who has worked at several local theaters. “It’s very different from other ORLANDO LIFE

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ATTRACTIONS

places in town.”

That difference has been in the theater’s DNA ever since Heather and her husband, artistic director Roy Alan, opened the doors — or raised the curtain — 12 years ago. Since then, the venture has become so successful that it’s currently in the midst of a major expansion.

“We like to call ourselves the ‘Forget Your Troubles’ Theater,” muses Heather, noting that the Winter Park Playhouse is one of only two professional musical theaters in Florida. (Naples’ TheatreZone is the other.) “Just like in the Great Depression, musicals are a form of escapism. They take people on a journey.” nnn “I basically grew up in theater,” says Roy, who has a folksy yet debonair demeanor reminiscent of Fred Astaire. In fact, he played Astaire in Let’s Face the Music, a lively tribute show that he wrote and produced. “Started taking dance when I was 4. Did my first professional musical at the age of 8. Was offered my union card at the ripe old age of 9.”

That was in Houston, where Roy studied dance with the mother of his buddy, Patrick Swayze. And as he got older, he made it his business to learn everything he could about working in theater — both onstage and behind the scenes.

Two years after high school, Roy moved to New York, where he found work in various capacities on such 1980s Broadway hits as Pirates of Penzance, with Linda Rondstadt and Kevin Kline, and the original production of Nine, with Raul Julia.

But after 13 years in the Big Apple, he began looking elsewhere.

And after putting up with one too many blizzards, he made the big move to Florida, where he was hired immediately at the Golden Apple, a dinner theater in Sarasota. There he spent three years directing, choreographing and performing in lead roles.

Then it was on to Jacksonville, where he performed in Singin’ in the Rain at the Alhambra Dinner Theatre. Heather, as it happened, was also in the show, and sparks flew offstage. They didn’t play the lovers, but, a year later, they were married. Shortly thereafter, they decided to set up housekeeping in Winter Park, where they’ve remained.

“Mine’s a very different story,” offers Heather, the Ginger to Roy’s Fred. A vivacious blonde with large, avid eyes, she speaks rapidly — sometimes explosively.

“I started singing when I was 15, just singing in church and singing at school,” says Heather, who spent her teen years in Jacksonville.

“My father wouldn’t allow me to get an arts-related college degree, so I ended up with a business-management major, which has worked out very fine.”

She discovered theater in college at the University of Florida in Gainesville and the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, from which she ultimately graduated. Afterward, she auditioned for roles — and began getting them.

“When we came together in the marriage, we each had a child,” Heather notes, adding that they’ve since had two kids together. “Lots 40

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of our friends had moved down to the Orlando area because of all the [theater] work. Not only that, but the theme-park work was here.

And it was an affordable place to raise a family.” nnn The enterprise that morphed into the Winter Park Playhouse began 15 years ago as a school, the Master Class Academy, which the couple later sold. “We wanted to share our passion for the arts with the community and with children,” Heather says. As for the theater, she admits, it was a bit of an afterthought.

“We had this raw warehouse space in the back of the school,” Heather recalls, “and we wanted the community to see the [local] talent.”

So the couple began mounting cabaret performances in the makeshift venue, which encompassed a small stage and 60 folding chairs.

Ray and Heather have from time to time performed in their own productions. But as the theater has become increasingly successful, and their administrative duties have become more demanding, they’ve spent less time in the limelight.

Yet they did star this season in They’re Playing Our Song, prompting Orlando Sentinel reviewer Matt Palm to remark on their “charming chemistry.”

In most stage musicals, important changes tend to occur in sudden, dramatic ways. A character wins a big contest or meets the girl of his dreams or has a shocking realization. Although the rise of the Winter Park Playhouse was more like a series of baby steps, there was indeed at least one major leap.

On a trip to New York, the couple saw — and fell in love with — an Off-Broadway musical comedy called I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change. It’s about the urban dating scene (in the first half) and suburban married life (in the second).

“We thought: If we don’t do anything else, we’ve got to at least mount this show,” Heather reflects. “People back home would just think this is a riot.”

So in 2003 they presented a mini-season consisting of that show, the more familiar (and serious) Godspell and California Suite, a nonmusical comedy.

The indisputable hit of that trio was I Love You. That success, plus some market research, told the couple that their audience preferred musical comedies. And it didn’t hurt that their biggest potential competitor, the musically oriented Mark Two Dinner Theater on Edgewater Drive, was in its final days.

“We realized what our restrictions were, our limitations in terms of what the public would support,” says Heather. “They did not want to see comedies. They wanted to see musical comedies.”

“That’s an interesting niche for a couple of reasons,” notes Elizabeth Maupin, who reviewed local theater for many years at the Sentinel. “One is that nobody else in town does musical comedy [exclusively], and especially no other professional company. The second is that there’s a certain segment of the theater-going audience that wants to laugh above all else.”

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nnn A stone’s throw from Park Avenue, the Winter Park Playhouse has been located at 711 Orange Ave., between U.S. 17-92 and Fairbanks Avenue since 2009. The outside isn’t much to look at: a flat facade featuring two signs that sport the theater’s name.

To one side of one sign, in bold block letters, is the word “MUSICAL,” and to the other side, in the same font, is the word “THEATRE,” leaving little room for doubt as to just what sort of shows are presented within.

The lobby, meanwhile, is a tastefully decorated space that looks rather like an old estate’s comfortable parlor, complete with a baby grand piano.

The current expansion, which was made possible when the school relocated, will increase the lobby to three times its size and add two additional restrooms. There’ll also be more space for offices and set storage as well as an additional dressing room. Up to now, male and female performers had been sharing space.

Fifty new seats will augment the existing 123 in the performance area. But that will have to wait for Phase II, projected to get underway next summer. The added capacity won’t come a moment too soon for Roy and Heather.

“We’re at a point where we have more demand than we’re able to meet,” says Heather, who boasts that the theater has more than 1,000 subscribers. That number is bolstered by significant group sales from retirement communities, a reflection of the nostalgic appeal many of the shows offer. “We sell out over 80 percent of our performances.”

And while Heather and Roy are proud to have their theater in Winter Park, they also see a downside.

“I think people do have the misconception that because we’re the Winter Park Playhouse that we get an unbelievable amount of community [financial] support, because it’s a wealthy city,” Heather explains. “We don’t get city support at all, currently, but we’re hoping that will change.”

The not-for-profit theater did, however, receive $40,000 in 2014 from Orange County, which was about enough to mount one show.

United Arts kicks in a bit, too, and the couple is investigating additional grant opportunities. nnn After the opening-night performance of Isn’t It Romantic?, Heather reappeared, along with the cast, to hug each audience member on his or her way out.

“Heather hugs you, no matter who you are,” explains Anderson, the director, whose next show at the playhouse is January’s The Rat Pack Lounge. “You’re very much made to feel at home.”

And yet, as Maupin points out, “Not everybody loves light musical comedy.” In fact, musicals of any kind leave some folks scratching their heads: Why would two seemingly sane characters, who were chatting perfectly nicely just moments ago, suddenly take it into their heads to start singing at each other and dancing around the stage?

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Heather and Roy are so busy dealing with the demands of their growing enterprise that they don’t fret much about questions like that.

“There’s lots of wonderful art that’s very dramatic; it makes you think,” says Heather. “For some people, that’s fine sometimes. But other times, they just want a nice, frivolous escape.”

That’s what’s waiting for them — and for you — on the stage of the Winter Park Playhouse. n

A SUPER SEASON OF SONGS AND SMILES

The Winter Park Playhouse typically presents seven shows per season. So far this season, it has offered Backwards in Heels: The Ginger Rogers Musical; Neil Simon’s They’re Playing Our Song; Isn’t It Romantic? A Tribute to Rodgers & Hart; and Shout! The Mod Musical, featuring the music of Petula Clark, Dusty Springfield and Lulu. Yet to come this season are: n The Rat Pack Lounge. Jan. 16-Feb. 14. It’s New Year’s Eve and the Rat Pack, now in heaven, discovers it has unfinished business back on earth. So Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. assume the terrestrial bodies of three barflies. Somewhere along the line, someone named Angie pops up. (Angie Dickinson?)

The show’s more than 30 hit songs include “My Way,” “Volare,” “Everybody Loves Somebody Sometime” and “Bye Bye Blackbird.” n A Day in Hollywood/A Night in the Ukraine. March 6-28. This Tony Award-winning show offers two one-act musicals loosely connected by a Tinseltown theme. The first half, a bit of a cavalcade, is set at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in the 1930s. The second half is an invented Marx Brothers movie, vaguely based on Chekov’s The Bear, of all things. The songs are a mixture of classics (including “Over the Rainbow”) and originals. n Putting It Together. April 17-May 9. Set at a chic Manhattan cocktail party, this musical revue borrows almost 30 songs from Stephen Sondheim’s other shows.

Those classics include “Sorry-Grateful” from Company, “Pretty Women” from Sweeney Todd and “Everybody Ought to Have a Maid” from A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.

In addition, the playhouse presents two nights of cabaret each month. Call 407-645-0145 or visit winterparkplayhouse.org for further information.

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FLAVOR

rona gindin

photographs by rafael tongol

Puttin’ on the Grits

SOUTHERN STAPLES GO UPSCALE AT HIGHBALL & HARVEST.

T

o my teenage dinner guest, who is inclined toward basic food

Highball & Harvest’s single-serving apple pie is flavored with honey-infused oranges and served with coffee ice cream.

42

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fare, our visit to Highball & Harvest was a relief.

He could sup on tender ribs with a sweet glaze and let the adults in the party eat the baby dumplings and red-wine cabbage that came with them. He relished the warm chocolate cake with a silky interior — and left it to the grownups to savor the delicate complement of sweet potato chutney.

Meanwhile I could appreciate the whole picture, namely what the ribs and dessert represented. Highball & Harvest is a bastion of Southern-influenced fare that’s both meticulous and approachable.

Those meaty pork bars, for example, had absorbed a spice rub for a full day, then been smoked for two hours, braised to maintain moisture and glazed with a barbecue sauce that had been flavored with a fig jam not only enhanced by bacon but infused with port wine.

Maybe the kid doesn’t fully grasp all that, but I do. He can graze unaware, thinking of Highball & Harvest’s food as a simple pleasure. But mama knows better. Mama knows Highball & Harvest’s creators have pulled off the tricky task of blending two worlds into one.

The restaurant is located in the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. Ritz-Carlton hotels do not plunk HoJos into their dining spaces. But when the time came to replace the longtime Vineyard Grill, and the local chefs got the go-ahead from corporate to create their own concept, they chose to embrace both their Southern surroundings and the institutional élan. Grits and glamour don’t ordinarily mix. Elsewhere, that is.

Having attended two media events before dining anonymously for this review, I was more likely to notice the rustic bent created by subtle references to railroads and agriculture, as well as the multistep presentation of the menu. Despite the discreet down-home touches, the space has a, well, ritzy feel. (My teenage son, walking down the steps toward the restaurant’s entrance, asked, “Is this the fanciest restaurant I’ve ever been to?”)

We had arrived via the bar, a spacious area with traditional stools, sofas, an oyster bar and an eight-seat table designed for private cocktail tastings. While looking for a hostess desk, we were quickly flagged down by a polite gentleman whose job obviously entailed guiding guests past the lounge to their destination. At a desk situated past the JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

12/15/14 11:16:07 AM

long bar, a hostess quickly found our reservation and led us to one of several dining rooms, most of them separated by flouncy curtains.

I’d already learned that Chef de Cuisine Mark Jeffers grew up in Florida and North Carolina, and that he had integrated childhood culinary influences throughout the menu. I also knew that craft-cocktail ice is carved expertly from a 300-pound block brought in each week. And that the restaurant team is big on sustainability, from having water bottles and glasses created from empty wine bottles to offering wines (16 varieties) poured from casks. There’s a substantial composting element, too. Those are such fitting and fun details that I was happy to rediscover many of them during my visit.

Our waiter, dressed in character in a blueand-white plaid collared shirt, knew the menu well and could answer all our questions knowledgeably, even though several dishes had been recently added.

We began with the homemade parkerhouse rolls. Parkerhouse rolls are generally soft and sweet. They are not, however, usually made with Khorasan, a wheat that “dates back to Egyptian times and is largely untouched in terms of genetic modification,” according to Jeffers.

The cushiony bread, served in a springform pan that was removed at the table, pleased all four in our party. I ate mine with the herb butter, a compound blended with garlic, shallots, thyme, rosemary, parsley and sea salt. The others slathered on a topping that’s deceptively called apple butter, though it is not the classic grocery-store version that’s essentially thick applesauce. This one is made in-house from apples boiled down with brown sugar, then puréed and folded into plain butter.

The Southern Spread is a good starter to share. It’s essentially a smoked fish dip — like the one Jeffers made as a kid with his father — and a pimento cheese spread blending white cheddar and muenster with a bit of puréed pequillo pepper for spice and color. It was served with toasted bread and benne-seed lavash.

For me the star of this platter, served in a ORLANDO-LIFE.COM

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Parkerhouse rolls (above) are made with all-natural Khorasan wheat. The mural in one of Highball & Harvest’s dining rooms (below) pays homage to Florida’s agricultural and railroad histories.

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FLAVOR

rona gindin

The “Booker’s Skirt” (above) is a flank steak marinated overnight in Booker’s bourbon. The “Southern Spread” (below), served in a bait box, includes a fish dip and various cheeses.

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fishing-bait box, was the pickled vegetables.

They’re just barely tart, barely crunchy. “I don’t like vegetables overpickled,” Jeffers explains. “I make the pickling liquid from white vinegar, salt, sugar, a little water and a homemade pickling spice made with dry spices, tarragon, thyme and garlic. I steep it like a tea. When it’s hot but not boiling, I pour it over fresh vegetables, put a lid on and let them come down to room temperature.” The result: “freshness and acidity.”

I lack space to go into that kind of detail for every dish we tasted, so here’s a quick rundown: Dale’s Deviled Eggs with Edwards’ Surryano ham: Didn’t thrill me. (I said I’d be quick.)

Chicken-fried chicken: I liked how it was boneless and thin, so every bite was moist and flavorful with crust. The flavor wasn’t a wow, though. The puréed potatoes, however, were downright satiny, and the cubes of roasted root vegetables were so good I could have made a meal of them. The pickled green beans crossing the top were crisp and vibrant.

Booker’s Skirt: My favorite entrée. Here’s how Jeffers describes this thick slice of skirt steak. “I put it in a marinade made with Booker’s bourbon, tying into the Southern theme, and also tamarind for the acidity and brown sugar and molasses. It’s emulsified with oil — essentially a sweet and sour vinaigrette. It sits overnight and is amazingly tender the next day.” The meat is served with a spectacular corn and tomato salad and more of those creamy, buttery puréed potatoes.

Shrimp and grits: Here the shrimp are Royal Reds from Cape Canaveral, small and lobster-sweet like rock shrimp, flash-cooked in butter with a splash of lemon and blackening seasoning, then set onto grits cooked with white cheddar and creamy goat cheese.

The dish is topped with an arugula salad and crisp onions. Nice.

Warm apple pie: This pretty, latticetopped affair, served on its own pedestal cake plate, was too fancy for our taste — the apple at the heart of it got lost, somehow, what with the honey-infused oranges and JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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Sweet little Royal Red shrimp from Cape Canaveral (right) are used in the shrimp and grits. Cocktails (below right) are made from scratch, and a separate eight-seat bar is used for group tastings.

the chocolate-covered malted-milk balls competing for attention. The peanut butter ice cream served with it was a standout, though.

Warm chocolate cake: We wanted to bath in the vanilla sauce, cleverly served in an Edison light bulb, that came along for the ride. But the sauce was too thick. We could barely shake any out.

So: We had a ketchup moment with the elusive vanilla sauce and would have preferred another recipe for deviled eggs. No big deal. I was immensely impressed with Highball & Harvest, from its thoughtful décor touches to its expertly prepared foods.

Locals are encouraged to visit, by the way.

Valet parking is free, as if you needed any more encouragement.

If you hightail it over, have a signature highball, as the cocktails are a highlight.

Then stay for an updated spin on Dixie classics, maybe with water poured from a remade wine bottle and a glass of Chehalem INOX unoaked chardonnay from a cask. Highballs and seasonally harvested foods are quite the darling duo here. ■ Rona Gindin, dining editor of Orlando Life, has written about Orlando’s restaurants for Fodor’s and Zagat, among many other publications. She’s the author of The Little Black Book of Walt Disney World.

WHERE: The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, 4012 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando HOW MUCH: $$$ WHERE TO CALL: 407-393-4422 / highballandharvest.com ORLANDO-LIFE.COM

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TAKE THE LEAD

Tony Jenkins, Market President, Central Florida, Florida Blue Chair, Leadership Orlando Class 89

Are you on the outside looking in? Are you ready to use your expertise and passion to advance a cause that will change and strengthen our region? Do you want to step inside the circle of decision-making that is shaping the future? Leadership Orlando recruits, cultivates and encourages established and emerging leaders from across seven counties to better serve Central Florida. Through our one-of-a-kind curriculum, you will explore regional assets, gain insight into the hottest topics from “those in the know,� and connect with more than 70 other like-minded professionals. Take the lead and enroll today!

Class 89 begins March 10, 2015 :: Enrollment Deadline: February 13 Contact Danielle Gulasa, Director of Business Development, at 407.835.2444 or visit LeadershipOrlando.org to reserve your space!

@LeadershipORL #LO89

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D

REMOD E L ORLANDO

LOST AND FOUND

At the Phillips Collection, designers find new uses for mundane or discarded objects. For example, these bicycle wheels from Indonesia have been born again as a room divider. This and other intriguing creations were on view at the recent High Point Market, the largest furniture and home-accessories trade show in the world. For more, see the accompanying story.

PUBLISHED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE REMODEL AND DESIGN COUNCIL OF THE GREATER ORLANDO BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

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12/15/14 11:18:01 AM

REMODEL MEMBER DIRECTORY

The companies listed below are members of the Remodel/Design Council of the Greater Orlando Builders Association (GOBA). Their membership is an indicator of their commitment to professionalism, continuing education and customer satisfaction. For more information about the council, call GOBA at 407-629-9242 or visit hbaofmetroorlando.com.

CONTRACTOR MEMBERS BUILDERS/REMODELERS

YOU CAN COUNT ON THESE PROS

Welcome to the sixth edition of Remodel Orlando.

As chair of the Remodel and Design Council, I’m excited about this special section and about our partnership with Orlando Life.

The council is part of the Greater Orlando Builders Association (GOBA), formerly the Home Builders Association of Metro Orlando. GOBA, one of the region’s oldest trade associations, has been recognized for 60 years as the voice of Central Florida’s housing industry.

Our purpose is to educate the public, promote the industry, take a proactive role in governmental and regulatory issues, and provide programs and services that enhance our members’ ability to do business in a professional and competent manner.

Professionalism is why the businesses listed to the right are the ones you want to consult before remodeling your home. By being council members, these builders, designers and suppliers have shown their commitment to making your project — and every project they tackle — the best that it can be.

I hope you enjoy the articles and photographs in Remodel Orlando. I look forward to upcoming issues, where you’ll see more projects highlighted and more information on home improvements and the people who make them happen.

In the meantime, if you’re considering a remodel project, check with GOBA to make sure that the company you plan on using is state-licensed for your safety and protection.

Mike Lewellen, Owner Five Star Construction Services Chairperson, Remodel and Design Council 48

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11OL_Jan-Feb15 Remodel.indd 48

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ADVERTISING/ PUBLICATIONS

DESIGN/ARCHITECTURE Canin & Associates 407-422-4040

Builder/Architect Magazine 407-321-6447

Kessee & Associate 407-880-2333

Akcel Construction 407-705-2049

Orlando Life / Florida Home Media 407-647-0225

MZ Interior Design 407-718-7330

Adventure in Building 407-222-5582

SLR Proshots 407-227-9619

Energy Technology Services 321-689-2544

Charles Clayton Construction 407-628-3334

ALARM/SECURITY SYSTEMS

ENGINEERS

A.C. Ernst Building Corporation 407-718-0303

College Park Construction 407-896-1063 Cumbus Constructing Corp.

407-467-4664 Hardwick General Contracting 407-702-6531 Eden Construction Corp.

407-671-9697 Five Star Construction Services (321) 696-5173 JLM Design 407-682-5225 Jonathan McGrath Construction 407-260-8077 NWC Construction 407-931-0600 Patriot Building Group 407-905-2790 PC&M 407-509-6314 PSG Construction 407-628-9660 Southern Heritage 407-467-3822 Walter Price Design/Build 407-322-2097 WAO Builders 407-221-8050 Zoltan Construction 407-539-1400

BUILDERS/DESIGNERS/ ARCHITECTS B & A Design Studio 407-829-8900 Phil Kean Design Group 407-599-3922

ELECTRICAL

Dynamark Systems 813-664-0770

DBSS Engineering and Design 321-251-6006

APPLIANCES

FLOOR COVERINGS

Milkarsky’s Appliance Center 407-830-6800

The Flooring Center 407-660-8400

APPLIANCES/CABINETS/ COUNTERTOPS

GARAGE DOORS/ ORGANIZATIONAL SYSTEMS

Bailey Industries 407-505-9736

APPLIANCES/LIGHTING/ PLUMBING Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery 407-893-5452

Florida Door Solutions 407-884-5955

HOME AUTOMATION SYSTEMS Zio Group 407-951-8160

AUTOMOTIVE

INSURANCE/ BONDS

Orlando Window Tint Specialists 407-628-8468

Page Insurance Agency 800-451-7661

INTERIOR DESIGN

BANKS

A. Clore Interiors 407-328-0730

Florida Community Bank 407-484-9383

BUILDING PRODUCTS Iron Age Metal 407-293-5788

CABINETS/ COUNTERTOPS Central Kitchen & Bath 407-629-9366 CL Kitchens, Baths & Closets 407-574-4099 Natural Stone Motif 407-774-0676 S&W Kitchens 407-339-5911

CARPENTRY/MILLWORK/ FOUNDATIONS Akcel Construction 407-705-2049 Custom Fenestration Products International 321-972-8939

M2 Interior Design 407-718-7330

LUMBER Thomas Lumber Company 407-841-1250

PAINT The Paint Drop by Valspar 407-600-5796

PLUMBING, HEATING, AIR CONDITIONING Del-Air 407-314-2813

WINDOWS Orlando Window Tint Specialists 407-628-8468 Solar Tite 407-834-2718

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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12/15/14 11:18:20 AM

REMODEL Coffee table by Jamie Drake for Theodore Alexander

PHOTO COURTESY OF ADVENTURE IN BUILDING

Jagger metal-base chair in Denim by CR Laine

Mirror by the Howard Elliott Collection

HIGH POINTS

TIPS AND TRENDS FROM THE MASSIVE MARKETPLACE.

By Karen LeBlanc 50

ORLANDO LIFE

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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Bed from the Mount Vernon Collection by Harden Furniture

Easton Chair by CR Laine

Room by Angela Neel Design features fewer, bigger objects.

C

ombining trendy and timeless in seem-

ingly casual yet carefully considered ways is the direction interior design is heading. That’s the impression I got at fall’s High Point Market, the largest home-furnishings industry trade show in the world.

Based on my recent trip to the sprawling North Carolina confab, here’s a look at the latest trends — and tips to make them work in any living space.

MAKE TIMELESS CHOICES

“The look is definitely more clean-lined, but people want to keep a certain amount of warmth,” says Angela Neel, owner of Angela Neel Design in Winter Park.

“I like to create a classic, timeless look and not go too far into a specific style. It’s more difficult to do it that way. You have to blend and balance all of the elements to make it work.”

Among the designers who successfully combine contemporary and classic are trendsetters such as TV personality Candice Olson, who hosts Divine Design and Candice Tells All on HGTV. The Candice Olson Collection includes lines of furniture, fabric, lighting, rugs and more. “I’m inspired by the past and the best ORLANDO-LIFE.COM

11OL_Jan-Feb15 Remodel.indd 51

of classic and traditional design,” Olsen says.

“I begin with a classic silhouette or a pattern that has a proven history, and I refine it to fit today’s contemporary lifestyles.”

Then, she says, she “injects some personality and some sizzle, which might be from nature or architectural motifs.”

MIX COZY, CONTEMPORARY

For a contemporary space that feels warm, Olson recommends mixing familiar or traditional pieces with more modern décor.

“There’s a fear factor with contemporary interior design,” she admits. “People want clean, sleek lines, but they’re fearful that the look is going to feel cold and sterile. That’s why I always try to inject a dose of something familiar, something that references the past.”

Olson’s advice for a quick and affordable update: “Ground your space with an area rug to establish the color palette, look, feel and style of a space. It’s like starting from the ground up, literally and figuratively.”

PERSONALIZE, PARE DOWN

Parisians are known for their casual, chic style. This French sensibility edits away the superfluous and creates a more sophisticated

look, devoid of distraction.

“Accessories are very personal,” says Neel.

“I like to mix family objects with new pieces.

My mantra is fewer, bigger, better pieces.

Too many small accessories make the home look cluttered and dated.”

Neel, who says many homes have entirely too many picture frames and silk plants, advises her clients to take away at least one out of three objects they’re displaying.

Mercedes Lanza, a design consultant at the Ethan Allen Design Studio in Winter Park, is an advocate of what she calls “the collected home.”

“Clients are encouraged to show their personalities through their collections,” she says. “Displaying what you love makes a home feel rich, personal and well thought out. Think modern art in a traditional room, a deconstructed sofa with a crystal chandelier or sparkly wallpaper behind a heavily distressed buffet.”

DON’T IGNORE TOUCH

In an effort to create “surface value,” designers are exploring new and unexpected uses of materials. Consequently, many new furniture and accessory launches at High Point were inORLANDO LIFE

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12/15/14 11:19:05 AM

REMODEL

Ethan Allen has embraced eclecticism, taking its traditional collections and freshening them with cleaner lines. It’s an “anything-goes” mentality, says one Ethan Allen designer, which encourages pairing of the old with the new, and mixing textures and styles. teresting to the touch as well as the eye.

Materials such as parchment, lacquered linen, faux horn and cast concrete create sensorystimulating spaces with intriguing textures.

Pieces such as the Constantine concrete table by Four Hands and the Theodore Alexander faux horn neoclassical mirror exemplify this trend.

52

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11OL_Jan-Feb15 Remodel.indd 52

FRESHEN CLASSIC FORMS

“Some of the things made in the 18th and 19th centuries were so proportionally beautiful,” says Anthony Cox, creative director of Theodore Alexander. “When translated into cleaner-lined items, these pieces exude modern classicism.”

Jamie Drake’s latest furniture line for the company puts a fresh face on classic forms, with sfumato lacquer accents and polished brass. The collection includes headboards, chairs, tables and sofas.

Sfumato, by the way, is a Renaissance painting style embodied by the work of Leonardo da Vinci. It comes from the Italian “sfumare,” meaning “to tone down” or “to evaporate like smoke.”

“I’m very much inspired by European design from the 18th century to the 20th century,” says Drake. “I took the essence of those time periods and completely changed the scale and detail so the pieces are much more modern.”

Early American design is also getting a reboot. The Mount Vernon collection by Harden Furniture builds on the timeless appeal of the furnishings in George Washington’s iconic Virginia home.

For example, a traditional poster bed has been reinterpreted with cleaner lines and a customizable headboard. It’s paired with a dresser made of solid cherry wood with shell motif handles.

Leigh and Leslie Keno, the twin-brother JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

12/15/14 11:19:15 AM

furniture designers and TV personalities known as the Keno Brothers — you’ve probably seen them on the PBS series Antiques Roadshow — have a signature style that fuses art deco and mid-century modern influences.

Many of their pieces offer a visual surprise, such as a veneered sideboard with “Keno Blue” interiors. “The look today is about being comfortable with touches of glam,” says Leslie.

Adds Bianca Dasilva, a design consultant at the Ethan Allen Design Studio at the Mall at Millenia: “We’ve taken our traditional collections, such as our British Classics and our American Impressions, and offered them in an array of updated finishes that have cooler, more grayed undertones to the woods.”

Through the use of cleaner lines and an increased emphasis on highlighting the beauty inherent in wood, clients are feeling more confident in blending the old with the new, says Dasilva.

PAIR THE UNEXPECTED

Four Hands, an Austin-based case-goods importer, has unveiled the Theory Collection in collaboration with Van Thiel & Company. They’ve dubbed it the “anti-collection” for its unexpected pairings and no-rules approach to mixing and matching.

Many of the eclectic pieces are inspired by unusual found objects. The Irondale Giles Counter Bench, for example, is modeled on a pommel horse (a gymnastics apparatus) discovered in an old gym. The padded leather bench works as table or bar seating.

“Eclecticism has been embraced in design, opening the door to an almost anythinggoes mentality, provided it’s done with good design sense,” says Donna Wargo, a design consultant at the Ethan Allen Design Studio at the Mall at Millenia. “It lets us play with texture, fabric and a mixture of design styles — giving our clients distinctly personalized spaces.”

COMBINE WARM METALS

Metal mixing continues to make a strong home-fashion statement. “I totally believe in the warm tones, whether it’s brass, gold leaf or a soft bronze,” says Drake.

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11OL_Jan-Feb15 Remodel.indd 53

Black nickel is the newest scene-stealer making its debut in the Frizzante line of lighting and tables by the Phillips Collection. Black nickel plays well with other popular warm metals, such as bronze and copper.

Concrete & Chrome coffee table by The Theory Collection from Four Hands

INFUSE FASHION COLORS

The latest runway fashions continue to influence colors and fabrics in home décor. Designer and TV personality Joe Ruggiero demonstrates this connection in his latest Sunbrella fabric and furniture collections for The M/T Company.

Ruggiero identified five “color stories” that translate from the runway to the room — cameo, raspberry, mist, denim and gray. Denim, a longstanding fashion staple, commands heightened respect as a more refined fabric in inky blue hues and multi-toned patterns.

Citrus colors continue to punch up living spaces with fruit-bowl inspired hues of tangerine, lemon, lime and red.

Irondale Giles Counter Bench by The Theory Collection from Four Hands

RECYCLED AND UP-CYCLED

Repurposed and up-cycled design finds become statement pieces in today’s home décor. The ability to see beauty in the mundane characterizes much of the creative output of the Phillips Collection.

“Part of our DNA is to find the exotic, sometimes the discarded, and to turn it into fine art,” explains Jason Phillips, the company’s vice president and creative director.

For example, reclaimed bike wheels from Indonesia become wall dividers, tables and chairs. Discarded soda bottles become outdoor sculptures.

Whatever home-décor styles you choose, Neel recommends a balance of scale, proportion and color: “These three elements come together like a three-dimensional painting to make a room.” ■

Karen LeBlanc is a Design TV host, writer and blogger. Her show, The Design Tourist, airs on thedesignnetwork.com and offers a global dose of design inspiration. Subscribe to her blog, insidedesign.tv, for news on the latest trends and tastemakers in art, architecture, home fashion and design plus more videos.

ORLANDO LIFE

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12/15/14 11:19:24 AM

EDUCATION

private schools

Learning Experience

I

finding the right school: its a matter of fit

n one sense, choosing a private school is easier than ever. Just ask

Sherry Hay, director of admission and financial aid at Trinity Preparatory School in Winter Park. She notes that thanks to the Internet, parents can do enough research to familiarize themselves with a school before they even see it.

But easier doesn’t mean easy. Campus visits are still an essential part of choosing a private or parochial school, Hay says. Parents ask fewer general questions during their visits because they’ve already found the basics online, she adds. But the questions are more pointed and specific.

“Now they ask about the needs of their children,” Hay reports, “such as details about a particular sport or club in which their child is interested, or about an aspect of the curriculum their child particu-

ALPHABET SOUP

larly likes, such as the arts or science curriculum.”

While the tenor of the questions may have changed, the bottom line on choosing a school has not. “The most important thing that a parent should consider when choosing a school is fit,” Hay says.

“Does the school meet your child’s learning and social needs?”

To find that ideal fit, Hay defers to the National Association of Independent Schools, which outlines six “special considerations” for parents when looking for a school: Location, Size, Educational Philosophy, Curriculum, Faculty and Facilities.

For more details on those six considerations, plus lots more indepth information and advice, go to the website of the National Association of Independent Schools, nais.org, and click on “Parents” at the top of the page. n

CASI: Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (ncacasi.org)

FISA: Florida Independent School Association (no website)

NAIS: National Association of Independent Schools (nais.org)

CITA: Commission on International and Trans-Regional Accreditation (advanc-ed.org)

FKC: Florida Kindergarten Council (fkconline.org)

NCPSA: National Council for Private School Accreditation (ncpsa.org)

FLAGS: Florida League of Assembly of God Schools (flags.org)

NCSA: National Christian School Association (nationalchristian.org)

FLOCS: Florida League of Christian Schools (flocs.org)

NIPSA: National Independent Private Schools Association (nipsa.org)

AdvancEd: (advanc-ed.org)

FAANS: Florida Association of Academic Nonpublic Schools (faans.org)

GOLD SEAL: Gold Seal Quality Care Program (my families.com/serviceprograms/child-care/goldseal)

NLSA: National Lutheran Schools Accreditation (lcms.org)

ACSI: Association of Christian Schools International (acsi.org)

FACCS: Florida Association of Christian Colleges & Schools (faccs.org)

IBO: International Baccalaureate Organization (ibo.org)

ACTS: Association of Christian Teachers and Schools (actsschools.org)

FCCAP: Florida Catholic Conference Accreditation Program (eas-ed.org)

ICAA: International Christian Accrediting Association (icaa.us)

AI: Accreditation International (aiaccredits.org)

FCCPSA: Florida Coalition of Christian Private Schools Association (fccpsa.org)

MSA-CESS: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools — Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (msa-cess.org)

Following are the listed accrediting organizations used by private schools in Florida and elsewhere.

For more information about each organization and its criteria, visit their websites:

AISF: Association of Independent Schools of Florida (aisfl.org) AMS: American Montessori Society (amshq.org) CAPE: Council for American Private Education (capenet.org) 54

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8OL_Jan-Feb15_Private Schools.indd 54

CSF: Christian Schools of Florida (christianschoolsfl.org) ECFA: Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ecfa.org)

FCIS: Florida Council of Independent Schools (fcis.org) FCSDA: Florida Conference of Seventh Day Adventists (floridaconference.com)

NAD/SDA: Seventh-day Adventist North American Division Commission on Accreditation (nadadventist.org)

NPSAA: National Private Schools Association Accreditation (npsag.org) NPSAG: National Private Schools Accreditation Group (npsag.com) SACS: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (sacs.org) SAIS: Southern Association of Independent Schools (sais.org) SBACS: Southern Baptist Association of Christian Schools (sbacs.org) SUC: Southern Union Conference (southernunion.com)

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

12/15/14 11:19:59 AM

PK & K PREVIEW

Jan 16th – 8:45am

OPEN HOUSE

All Grades

Jan 24th - 10am - 12pm

Visit our website for our additional school day VIP tour dates.

RSVP today and attend to receive 1/2 off application fee!

RSVP TODAY N

NORTH CAMPUS (Elementary & Preschool) 125 East Plant Street Winter Garden, FL 34787

407.877.2744 S

SOUTH CAMPUS (Middle & High School) 15304 Tilden Road Winter Garden, FL 34787

www.FoundationAcademy.net

DON’T MISS WINTER PARK If you’d like to receive Winter Park Magazine, free of charge, log onto orlando-life.com, click on the Orlando Life cover image and fill out the form.

ORLANDO LIFE

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55

12/15/14 1:56:10 PM 12/15/14 1:57:32 PM

Accreditations

Pre-K12

508

11::1

NCSA, SACS

$8,325-$9,228

Faith Lutheran School 2727 S. Grove St., Eustis, FL 32726

352-589-5683 faitheustis.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

225

18::1

NLSA

$4,140-$5,300

First Academy Leesburg 219 N. 13th St., Leesburg, FL 34748

352-787-7762 faleesburg.com

Yes

K-12

354

20::1 / 25::1

ACSI, SACS

$6,120-$6,530

Gateway Christian School 18440 US Highway 441, Mount Dora, FL 32757

352-383-9920 antbmu.adventistschoolconnect.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

49

11::1

FAANS, FCSDA, NCPSA, SUC

$4,800

Lake Montessori & Learning Institute 415 N. Lee St., Leesburg, FL 34748

352-787-5333 lakemontessori.com

No

Pre-K-5

50

6::1 / 10::1

AMS

$3,350-$7,200

Liberty Christian Prep

352-343-0061 libertychristianprep.com

Yes

K3-12

280

23::1

FACCS, NCPSA

$5,000-$5,250

407-469-2561 montverde.org

Yes

Pre-K12

15::1

FCIS, FKC, SACS, SAIS

$10,650$13,335

352-394-5575 rlcacademy.com

Yes

Pre-K12

400

13::1

ACSI

$6,336-$7,266

352-787-4657 saintpaulschool.com

Yes

Pre-K-8

200

17::1

FCCAP

$5,700-$6,500

Azalea Park Baptist 5725 Dahlia Drive, Orlando, FL 32807

407-277-4056 azaleaparkbaptist.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

125

16::1 / 20::1

SBACS

$4,055-$4,155

Bishop Moore Catholic High School 3901 Edgewater Drive, Orlando, FL 32804

407-293-7561 bishopmoore.org

Yes

9-12

1,200

25::1

SACS

$9,900-$13,704

Central Florida Christian Academy 700 Good Homes Road, Orlando, FL 32818

407-850-2322 cfcaeagles.org

Yes

Pre-K12

240

18::1

ACSI, SACS

$8,856-$9,432

Central Florida Preparatory School 1450 Citrus Oaks Ave., Gotha, FL 34734

407-290-8073 cfprep.org

Yes

Pre-K12

210

10::1 / 20::1

ASIF, GOLD SEAL, NCPSA, SACS

$7,100-$9,295

Christian Victory Academy 4606 Lake Margaret Drive, Orlando, FL 32812

407-281-6244 christianvictoryacademy.org

Yes

K-12

105

4::1 / 12::1

FCCPSA

$3,500-$4,600

Faith Christian Academy 9307 Curry Ford Road, Orlando, FL 32825

407-275-8031 fcalions.org

Yes

Pre-K12

600

20::1 / 25::1

ACTS, FLOCS, SACS

$6,050-$6,800

Family Christian School 671 Beulah Road, Winter Garden, FL 34787

407-656-7904 fcs-fl.org

Yes

K-8

122

16::1 / 18::1

ACSI

$5,100-$5,600

Forest Lake Academy 500 Education Loop, Apopka, FL 32703

407-862-8411 forestlakeacademy.org

Yes

9-12

350

18::1

AISF, FAANS, MSA$9,720-$11,315 CESS, NAD/SDA, NCPSA

Foundation Academy 15304 Tilden Road Winter Garden, FL 34787

407-877-2744 foundationacademy.net

Yes

Pre-K12

650

15::1

ACSI, SACS

$9,078-$10,571

Good Shepherd Catholic 5902 Oleander Drive, Orlando, FL 32807

407-277-3973 goodshepherd.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

663

18::1

FCCAP

$6,000-$6,895

Hampden Dubose Academy 3700 Dohnavur Drive, Zellwood, FL 32798

407-880-4321 hda-lhs.com

Yes

Pre-K12

129

15::1

AISF (pending)

$5,500-$6,000

Website/Phone

2014-2015 Tuition*

Student Teacher Ratio

No

Grade Range

352-383-2155 chbs.org

Uniforms

Christian Home & Bible School 301 W. 13th Ave., Mount Dora, FL 32757

School Name/Address

Number of Students

private-school directory

LAKE COUNTY

2451 Dora Ave., Tavares, FL 32778 Montverde Academy

17325 Seventh St., Montverde, FL 34756 Real Life Christian Academy

1501 Steve’s Road, Clermont, FL 34711 St. Paul’s Catholic School

1320 Sunshine Ave., Leesburg, FL 34748

ORANGE COUNTY

*Annual tuition for grades K-12; does not include pre-K. 56

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8OL_Jan-Feb15_Private Schools.indd 56

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

12/15/14 11:20:08 AM

2014-2015 Tuition*

Accreditations

Student Teacher Ratio

Number of Students

Grade Range

Uniforms

Website/Phone

School Name/Address

private-school directory

Holy Family Catholic School 5129 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando, FL 32819

407-876-9344 hfcschool.com

Yes

Pre-K-8

705

12::1 / 35::1

FCCAP

$5,300-$7,900

Jewish Academy of Orlando 851 N. Maitland Ave., Maitland, FL 32751

407-647-0713 jewishacademyorlando.org

Yes

K-8

151

6::1

FCIS

$11,725$15,000

Kingsway Christian Academy 4161 N. Powers Drive, Orlando, FL 32818

407-295-8901 kingswaychristianacademy.com

Yes

Pre-K-8

463

19::1

FACCS

$4,680

Lake Highland Preparatory School 901 N. Highland Ave., Orlando, FL 32803

407-206-1900 lhps.org

Yes

Pre-K12

1,982

13::1

FCIS, FKC, NAIS, SACS

$10,000$18,100

Orangewood Christian School 1300 W. Maitland Blvd., Maitland, FL 32751

407-339-0223 orangewoodchristian.org

Yes

Pre-K12

715

9::1 / 11::1

CSF, NCPSA, SACS

$9,480-$11,880

Orlando Christian Prep 500 S. Semoran Blvd., Orlando, FL 32807

407-823-9744 orlandochristianprep.org

Yes

Pre-K12

581

20::1 / 25::1

FACCS, MSA-CESS

$5,500-$8,695

Orlando Junior Academy 30 E. Evans St., Orlando, FL 32804

407-898-1251 discoveroja.com

Yes

Pre-K-8

250

17::1

CAPE, FAANS, FCSDA, NAD/SDA,

$4,400-$5,500

Park Maitland School 1450 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland, FL 32751

407-647-3038 parkmaitland.org

Yes

Pre-K-6

620

10::1 / 15::1

FCIS, FKC

$11,7750$13,450

Pathways School 1877 W. Oak Ridge Road, Orlando, FL 32809

407-816-2040 pathwaysprivateschool.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

201

20::1

FISA

$7,100

Pine Castle Christian Academy 7101 Lake Ellenor Drive, Orlando, FL 32809

407-313-7222 pccaeagles.org

Yes

Pre-K12

160

12::1 / 19::1

ACSI, SACS

$8,600-$9,800

St. Andrew Catholic School 877 N. Hastings St., Orlando, FL 32808

407-295-4230 standrewcatholicschool.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

350

20::1

FCCAP

$5,300

St. Charles Borromeo School 4005 Edgewater Drive, Orlando, FL 32804

407-293-7691 stcharles-orlando.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

300

20::1

FCCAP

$6,225-$9,171

St. James Cathedral School 505 E. Ridgewood St., Orlando, FL 32803

407-841-4432 stjcs.com

Yes

Pre-K-8

480

16::1

FCCAP

$6,277

St. John Vianney Catholic School 6200 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32809

407-855-4660 sjvs.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

555

15::1

FCCAP

$5,151-$7,273

The Christ School 106 E. Church St., Orlando, FL 32801

407-849-1665 thechristschool.org

Yes

K-8

332

16::1 / 17::1

CSF

$9,374-$9,940

The Crenshaw School 2342 Hempel Ave., Gotha, FL 34734

407-877-7412 crenshawschool.com

Yes

Pre-K12

120

12::1 / 15::1

AISF, CASI, NCPSA, SACS

$9,000-$13,300

The First Academy 2667 Bruton Blvd., Orlando, FL 32805

407-206-8600 thefirstacademy.org

Yes

Pre-K12

1,150

18::1 / 22::1

ACSI, FCIS, FKC, SACS, SAIS

$9,950-$15,920

The Parke House Academy 1776 Minnesota Ave., Winter Park, FL 32789

407-647-3624 theparkehouseacademy.com

Yes

Pre-K-5

200

10::1

FCIS, FKC

$11,400

Trinity Christian School 1022 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Apopka, FL 32703

407-886-0212 tcsapopka.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

308

18::1

ACSI, SACS, SBACS

$6,320-$6,960

Trinity Lutheran School 123 E. Livingston St., Orlando, FL 32801

407-488-1919 trinitydowntown.com

Yes

Pre-K-8

307

12::1

NLSA

$8,053-$8,526

Trinity Preparatory School 5700 Trinity Prep Lane, Winter Park, FL 32792

407-671-4140 trinityprep.org

No

6-12

874

11::1

FCIS

$18,650

West Orange Montessori 227 S. Main St., Winter Garden, FL 34787

407-654-0700 westorangemontessori.com

No

Pre-K &K

40

10::1

AMS

$7,750

*Annual tuition for grades K-12; does not include pre-K. ORLANDO-LIFE.COM

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ORLANDO LIFE

57

12/15/14 11:20:13 AM

Windermere Preparatory School 6189 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Windermere, FL 34786

407-905-7737 windermereprep.com

Yes

Pre-K12

City of Life Christian Academy 2874 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy., Kissimmee, FL 34744

407-847-5184 colca.tv

Yes

Pre-K12

First United Methodist School 122 W. Sproule Ave., Kissimmee, FL 34741

407-847-8805 fums.org

Yes

Heritage Christian School 1500 E. Vine St., Kissimmee, FL 34744

407-847-4087 heritageeagles.org

Holy Redeemer Catholic School 1800 W. Columbia Ave., Kissimmee, FL 34741

2014-2015 Tuition*

Accreditations

Student Teacher Ratio

Number of Students

Grade Range

Uniforms

Website/Phone

School Name/Address

private-school directory

16::1

FCIS, FKC,IBO,SACS,SAIS

$12,925$17,850

360

12::1 / 25::1

CASI, ICAA, SACS

$5,335-$5,670

Pre-K-5

224

15::1

FACCS

$4,500

Yes

Pre-K12

550

24::1 / 26::1

FCCPSA

$3,150-$3,350

407-870-9055 hrcschool.com

Yes

Pre-K-8

360

25::1

FCCAP

$5,300-$6,600

Life Christian Academy 2269 Partin Settlement Road, Kissimmee, FL 34744

407-847-2336 lifechristianacademy.us

Yes

Pre-K12

320

22::1

AdvancEd, FLOCS, SACS

$4,078-$4,347

North Kissimmee Christian School 425 W. Donegan Ave., Kissimmee, FL 34741

407-847-2877 nkcs.weebly.com

Yes

Pre-K12

140

15::1

SBACS

$3,350

Saint Thomas Aquinas Catholic School 800 Brown Chapel Road, St. Cloud, FL 34769

407-957-1772 stacschool.com

Yes

Pre-K-8

280

22::1

FCCAP

$4,995-$6,245

Southland Christian School 2440 Fortune Road, Kissimmee, FL 34744

407-201-7999 scs2440.com

Yes

Pre-K12

470

27::1

FACCS

$3,400-$4,000

Trinity Lutheran School 3016 W. Vine St., Kissimmee, FL 34741

407-847-5377 trinitychurchandschool.com

Yes

Pre-K-8

130

16::1

NLSA

$4,975-$5,225

All Souls Catholic School 810 S. Oak Ave., Sanford, FL 32771

407-322-7090 allsoulscatholicschool.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

250

13::1

FCCAP

$7,584

Altamonte Christian School 601 Palm Springs Drive, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701

407-831-0950 altamontechristian.org

Yes

K-12

252

20::1

FACCS, NPSAA

$4,200-$4,700

Annunciation Catholic Academy 593 Jamestown Blvd., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714

407-774-2801 annunciationacademy.org

Yes

K-8

507

14::1

FCCAP

$6,150-$7,400

Center Academy 341 N. Orlando Ave., Maitland, FL 32751

407-772-8727 centeracademy.com

No

5-12

47

10::1

NIPSA, SACS

$11,000$13,000

Champion Preparatory School 1935 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Apopka, FL 32703

407-788-0018 championprep.org

Yes

K-12

304

9::1

NPSAA

N.A.

Forest City Adventist School 1238 Bunnell Road, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714

407-299-0703 fcsdaschool.com

Yes

K-8

100

13::1

NAD/SDA

$4,100-$5,300

Holy Cross Lutheran Academy 5450 Holy Cross Court, Sanford, FL 32771

407-936-3636 thehcla.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

259

15::1

AISF, NCPSA, SACS

$6,400

Lake Forrest Preparatory School 866 Lake Howell Road, Maitland, FL 32751

407-331-5144 lakeforrestprep.com

Yes

Pre-K-8

200

18::1

AISF, MSA-CES, NCPSA

$9,245-$9,460

Lake Mary Montessori Academy 3551 W. Lake Mary Blvd., Lake Mary, FL 32746

407-324-2304 lmma.net

Yes

Pre-K-6

120

11::1

AMS, CITA, SACS

$9,245-$11,425

Lake Mary Preparatory School 650 Rantoul Lane, Lake Mary, FL 32746

407-805-0095 lakemaryprep.com

Yes

Pre-K12

680

18::1

FCIS, FKC

$10,300$13,575

OSCEOLA COUNTY

SEMINOLE COUNTY

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K-12

120

14::1

ACSI

$3,400

Markham Woods Christian Academy 1675 Dixon Road, Longwood, FL 32779

407-774-0777 markhamwoodschristianacademy.com

Yes

Pre-K-8

100

10::1

ACTS, FLOCS, NCPSA, SACS

$5,148-$5,980

Pace Brantley Hall School 3221 Sand Lake Road, Longwood, FL 32779

407-869-8882 mypbhs.org

Yes

2-12

149

10::1

FCIS

$14,477$14,985

Page Private School 100 Aero Lane, Sanford, FL 32771

407-324-1144 pageschool.com

Yes

Pre-K-8

125

12::1

AI, AISF, GOLD SEAL, MSCES, NCPSA,

$10,160

St. Lukes Lutheran School 2025 W. S.R. 426, Oviedo, FL 32765

407-365-3228 stlukes-oviedo.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

720

18::1

AdvancEd, NLSA, SACS

N.A.

St. Mary Magdelen Catholic School 869 Maitland Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32701

407-830-6245 smmschool.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

454

17::1

FCCAP

$6,215-$7,370

Sweetwater Episcopal Academy 251 E. Lake Brantley Drive, Longwood, FL 32779

407-862-1882 sweetwaterepiscopal.org

Yes

Pre-K-5

160

8::1

FCIS, FKC

$11,400

The Geneva School 2025 S.R. 436, Winter Park, FL 32792

407-332-6363 genevaschool.org

Yes

Pre-K12

500

10::1

FCIS, FKC

$9,095-$11,660

The Master’s Academy 1500 Lukas Lane, Oviedo, FL 32765

407-971-2221 mastersacademy.org

Yes

Pre-K12

900

15::1

ACSI, ECFA, FCIS, SACS

$9,278-$11,617

Tuskawilla Montessori Academy 1625 Montessori Point, Oviedo, FL 32765

407-678-3879 tuskmont.org

No

Pre-K-8

146

10::1

AISF, AMS, NCPSA, SACS

$8,391-$8,967

Lighthouse Christian Preparatory Academy 126 S. Ridgewood Ave., DeLand, FL 32720

386-734-4631 lighthousechristianacademy.fl.vca.

Yes

Pre-K-8

200

15::1

FCCPSA

$3,810-$3,920

St. Barbabas Episcopal School 322 W. Michigan Ave., DeLand, FL 32720

386-734-3005 sbesyes.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

391

10::1

FCIS, FKC

$6,171-$7,008

St. Peter Catholic School 421 W. New York Ave., DeLand, FL 32720

386-822-6010 stpeter-deland.org

Yes

Pre-K-8

265

25::1

FCCAP

$4,972-$6,443

Trinity Christian Academy 875 Elkcam Blvd., Deltona, FL 32725

386-789-4515 trinitychristianacademy.com

Yes

Pre-K12

625

25::1

FAANS, FLOCS, NCPSA, SACS

N.A.

Accreditations

Website/Phone

2014-2015 Tuition*

Student Teacher Ratio

Yes

Grade Range

407-323-1583 liberty-patriots.org

Uniforms

Liberty Christian School 2626 S. Palmetto Ave., Sanford, FL 32773

School Name/Address

Number of Students

private-school directory

VOLUSIA COUNTY

*Annual tuition for grades K-12; does not include pre-K. ORLANDO-LIFE.COM

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HIGHER-EDUCATION directory SCHOOL Name

Ana G. Méndez University System Orlando 407-207-3363 / suagm.edu

Undergraduate degrees

BS, BBA, BSN, BA

Barry University School of Law Orlando 321-206-5600 / barry.edu/law

Graduate degrees

*Cost

Notes

MBA, MPS, MS, MEd, MA, MPA

Undergraduate PCH: $368 Graduate PCH: $435

The 63-year-old private university, based in Puerto Rico, opened its Orlando campus in 2003; offers accelerated, dual-language undergraduate and graduate programs.

JD

PS Part Time: $13,535 PS Full Time: $17,922

Opened in 1999 in east Orlando, its 20-acre campus has been fully accredited since 2006.

Beacon College Leesburg 352-787-7660 / beaconcollege.edu

AA, BA

N/A

PY Full Time: $31,916

The first accredited U.S. college offering associate and bachelor degrees exclusively for students with learning disabilities.

Belhaven University Orlando 407-804-1424 / orlando.belhaven.edu

BA, AA, BBA, BS

MA, MBA, MEd, MS

Undergraduate PCH: $460 Graduate PCH: $480-$590

A private Christian liberal arts university designed for busy professionals, with classes held one night per week.

Bethune-Cookman University Daytona Beach 386-281-2950 / cookman.edu

BA, BS

MS

PY Full Time: $14,410

Founded in 1904 by civil-rights legend Mary McLeod Bethune, and one of just three historically black colleges in Florida, B-CU has been a full-fledged university since 2007.

Columbia College Orlando, FL 407-293-9911 / ccis.edu

AA, AS, BA, BS, AGS, BGS

MBA

Undergraduate PCH: $200 Undergraduate (online) PCH: $260 Graduate PCH-$330 Graduate (online) PCH: $350

The Orlando campus, one of 34 nationwide, was established in 1975; the main campus in Missouri was founded in 1851.

The DAVE School Orlando 407-224-3283 / daveschool.com

Certificate of Completion

N/A

PP: $33,500

The Digital Animation and Visual Effects school at Universal Studios Orlando offers training in computer graphics; one of only two educational institutions granted membership in the Visual Effects Society.

DeVry University Orlando (two campuses) 407-345-2800 / 407-659-0900 / devry. edu

AA, BBA, BA

MBA, MPA, CERT

Undergraduate PCH: $365-$609 Graduate PCH: $495-$766

The 82-year-old university has 90-plus locations nationwide; offers associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees at its five colleges, including the Keller Graduate School of Management.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Daytona Beach 386-226-6000 / erau.edu

BAS, BS, BAE, BBA, AS

PhD, MS, MAE MBA, MSE, MSA

Undergraduate PY: $31,344 Graduate PY: $16,588

The world’s oldest and largest university devoted to aviation and aerospace; boasts a fleet of 92 instructional aircraft and 41 flight simulators.

Everest University Orlando (2 campuses) 407-628-5870 / 407-851-2525 / everest. edu

BA, BS, AA

MBA

Varies by program

More than 100 campuses nationwide, including two in Orlando; offers degrees and certification programs in fields ranging from accounting and nursing to massage therapy.

Everglades University Altamonte Springs 407-277-0311 / evergladesuniversity.edu

BS

MA, MBA

Undergraduate PP: $73,800 Graduate PP: $22,500

Offers bachelor’s degrees in such fields as construction management and alternative medicine, and graduate degrees in business administration and aviation science.

JD

PY Part Time: $10,029 PY Full Time: $14,132

Celebrating its 13th anniversary in Orlando; has 700 students at its four-story, downtown Orlando campus.

MA, MBA, MACC, MAT, MED, MSN

PY: Full-Time Undergraduate: $29,340

Founded in 1883, the school features several Frank Lloyd Wright buildings and was ranked as one of the Top 10 colleges in the South by U.S. News & World Report.

Florida A&M University College of Law Orlando 407-254-3286 / law.famu.edu Florida Southern College Lakeland 863-680-4111 / flsouthern.edu

BA

*PCH: Cost per credit hour, PS: Cost per semester, PY: Cost per year, PP: Cost per total program, PC: Cost per course. Note: Costs are for in-state residents.

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HIGHER-EDUCATION directory SCHOOL Name

Undergraduate degrees

Graduate degrees

*Cost

Notes

Full Sail University Winter Park 407-679-6333 / fullsail.edu

AS, BS

MS

Undergraduate PCH: $448-$646 Graduate PCH: $534-$850

Offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs for careers in film, music, gaming, animation and other forms of interactive entertainment.

Herzing University Winter Park 407-478-0500 / herzing.edu

AS, BS

MBA, MN

PCH: $550-$735

One of the first post-secondary institutions founded to prepare students for careers in the computer industry

ITT Technical Institute Orlando & Lake Mary 407-371-6000 / 407-660-2900 itt-tech.edu

AA, BA

MBA (online)

PCH: $493

Focusing on technology-oriented programs at its 140-plus U.S. locations, including two in metro Orlando, ITT offers associate and bachelor’s degrees.

Keiser University Orlando 407-273-5800 keiseruniversity.edu/orlando.php

AA, BA, AS, BS

MBA, MA, MS, PhD

Undergraduate PS: $8,280 Graduate PS: $10,000

Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale; has 14 campuses in Florida, including Orlando; classes are small and are taken one at a time.

Nova Southeastern University Orlando 407-264-5601 / nova.edu

AA, BA, BSN, RN, BS

MA, MS, MBA, Med, Ph.D, CERT

Undergraduate PCH: $675-$825

The Fort Lauderdale-based school, founded in 1964, has grown into the nation’s eighth largest, not-for-profit independent university.

Reformed Theological Seminar Oviedo 407-366-9493 / rts.edu/orlando

CERT

M.Div, MA, D.Min

PS: $450

The virtual campus started in Orlando in the 1990s and became the first online seminary offering accredited degrees.

Rollins College Winter Park 407-646-2000 / rollins.edu

BA

MA, MBA

PY: $43,080

For five years running ranked No. 1 among Southern master’s level universities by U.S. News & World Report.

MBA

PP varies from $52,290-$69,000

Offers three different MBA degrees, one tailored for recent graduates, another for working professionals, and a third for mid- to senior-level executives. Ranked No. 1

by Forbes.

Rollins College Crummer Graduate School of Business Winter Park 407-646-2405 / rollins.edu/mba Rollins College Hamilton Holt School Winter Park 407-646-2000 rollins.edu/holt

BA

MEd, MA

Undergraduate PCH: $432 Graduate PCH: $442-$581

Named for Rollins’ eighth president; offers evening classes for working adults pursuing bachelor’s or master’s degrees.

Seminole State College Sanford 407-708-2050 / seminolestate.edu

AA, AS, BA, BS

N/A

PCH: $104

Four campus locations; offers five bachelor’s degrees in addition to scores of associate degrees, certification programs and continuing adult education.

Stetson University DeLand 386-822-7100 / stetson.edu

BA, BS, BBA

MEd, MBA, MS, MA, MAcc, JD/ MBA

Undergraduate PY: $39,690 Graduate PCH: $821$1,205 Law School PY: $38,584

Founded in 1883; boasts Florida’s first School of Business Administration, first School of Music and the first college newspaper, now 126 years old.

Strayer University Orlando & Maitland 407-926-2000 / 407-618-5900 strayer.edu

AA, BS, BBA, CERT

MBA, MS, MPA, MEd, MHSA

Undergraduate PC: $1,420 Graduate PC: $2,450

Founded in 1892; has more than 90 campuses in the U.S.; offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certification programs, in subjects ranging from accounting to public administration.

Troy University Orlando 407-219-5980 trojan.troy.edu/globalcampus

BS, BAS, ASB

MS, MPA, MBA

Undergraduate PCH: $326 Graduate PCH: $488

Main campus in Troy, Ala.; the 128-year-old school has branch campuses in several Southeastern states, including seven in Florida.

*PCH: Cost per credit hour, PS: Cost per semester, PY: Cost per year, PP: Cost per total program, PC: Cost per course. Note: Costs are for in-state residents.

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HIGHER-EDUCATION directory SCHOOL Name

Undergraduate degrees

Graduate degrees

*Cost

Notes

University of Central Florida Orlando 407-823-2000 / ucf.edu

AA, BA, CERT, BFA

MA, MFA, MSA, MBA, MS, MEd, MPA, PhD

Undergraduate PCH: $105 / Graduate PCH: $288

Opened in 1968 as Florida Technological University in the outskirts east of Orlando; now the second largest university in the U.S., offering more than 200 majors.

UCF Center for Emerging Media Orlando 407-235-3616 / cem.ucf.edu

BFA, BA, BS

MFA, MA

Undergraduate PCH: $105 Graduate PCH: $288 Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy PP: $33,000

The downtown center houses a host of undergraduate and graduate programs in digital media, plus an art studio, a printing press and the University of Florida’s graduate architectural program.

MS, PhD, MD

PY: $29,680

Opened in 2009, with its first class of medical students all receiving full four-year scholarships; a main anchor for Orlando’s burgeoning Medical City in Lake Nona.

UCF College of Medicine Orlando 407-266-1000 / med.ucf.edu UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management Orlando 407-903-8000 / hospitality.ucf.edu

BS

MS, PhD

Undergraduate PCH: $105 / Graduate PCH: $288

Offers bachelor’s and graduate degrees in hotel, event, restaurant and food-service management and a PhD in hospitality education.

University of Phoenix 3 Orlando-area campuses 866-766-0766 / phoenix.edu

AA, BS, RNto-BSN

MBA, MPA, MS, MEd, MHA, MIS

Undergraduate PY: $10,894 Graduate PY: $13,557

More than 200 locations nationwide; now the largest private university in the U.S.

Valencia College Orlando 407-299-5000 / valenciacollege.edu

AA, BA, BS, AS

N/A

PCH: $103-$112

Named in 2011 as the top community college in the U.S. by the prestigious Aspen Institute; guarantees its graduates admission to UCF.

MA, MBA, MHA, MS, CERT

Graduate PCH: $545

Webster University Orlando 407-869-8111 / webster.edu/orlando

The St. Louis-based university has more than 100 campuses worldwide, including two in Orlando, with classes starting five times per year.

*PCH: Cost per credit hour, PS: Cost per semester, PY: Cost per year, PP: Cost per total program, PC: Cost per course. Note: Costs are for in-state residents.

DEGREE Key

BGS: Bachelor of General Studies

AA: Associate of Arts

BS: Bachelor of Science

MAE: Master of Aerospace Engineering

AAS: Associate of Applied Science

BSBA: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

MBA: Master of Business Administration

MSA: Master of Science in Aeronautics

AGS: Associate of General Studies

BSE: Bachelor of Science in Engineering

MD: Doctor of Medicine

MSBA: Master of Science in Business Administration

AS: Associate of Science

BSN: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

MEd: Master of Education

ASB: Associate of Science in Business

BT: Bachelor of Theology

ASBA: Associate of Science in Business Administration

CERT: Certificate program

ASGE: Associate of Science in General Education

JD: Juris Doctor

BA: Bachelor of Arts BBA: Bachelor of Business Administration BFA: Bachelor of Fine Arts

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D.Min: Doctor of Ministry JD/MBA: Juris Doctor/Master of Business Administration LSCM: Logistics and Supply Chain Management MA: Master of Arts

MAcc: Master of Accountancy

M.Div: Master of Divinity MFA: Master of Fine Arts MHA: Master of Health Administration MHSA: Master of Health Services Administration MHSc: Master of Health Science MIS: Master of Information Systems

MPS: Master of Professional Studies MS: Master of Science

MSE: Master of Science in Engineering MSEd: Master of Science in Education MSN: Master of Science in Nursing PhD: Doctor of Philosophy RN: Registered Nurse

MPA: Master of Public Administration JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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12/15/14 11:21:05 AM

RESTLESS NATIVE

mike thomas

Car Talks

EVERY RIDE HAS OPENED A NEW WINDOW INTO A DAUGHTER’S HEART. I need a break. Today I have turned the computer over to my beautiful wife, Laurie. —Mike Thomas

M

ommy, are fairies real?”

Carly’s little voice has piped up from the back of our minivan. She is strapped into her car seat, surrounded by piles of Rainbow Fairy books.

She is 5 years old. Huge green eyes, freckled nose, brown hair in a ponytail tied back with a red bow as big as a plate.

I glance at her in the rearview mirror, suddenly reminded of my own fanciful side, and of a time, when I was her age, when I had sat on the avocado-green shag carpeting in my basement playing with my imaginary friend, Lilacapa Lukenog.

For some reason I sense that Carly already knows the answer to her own question. So this is how I reply: “No, sweetie, fairies aren’t real.”

There is a moment of silence.

“Then the Tooth Fairy isn’t real. That’s just you and Daddy.”

“No, the Tooth Fairy isn’t real,” I answer. In rapid succession, the dominoes fall. No Tooth Fairy. No Birthday Fairy. No Easter Bunny.

And finally, in the back seat of that Honda, the domino of all dominoes.

No Santa.

The conversation that ensues includes her insight (“I choose to believe in Santa anyway”), my empathy (“I remember when I found out about Santa Claus”), and a mother’s demand (“You must NEVER talk about this with another child”).

The Santa Claus mythology chat was just one of countless memorable conversations Carly and I had as I drove her from one place to another.

Once, on the way to a birthday party, musing about what might be in the goody bag, she suggested that if it contained a breast filled with milk, she would give it to her baby sister.

It was in a car two years ago that I learned of her first date.

As much as parents complain about the huge swaths of time we spend hauling our children around in cars, it is precious time. We are captive. And we converse.

Until a year ago. Until she turned 15 and acquired her Learner’s Permit and promptly rolled out of our driveway and into our neigh-

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bor’s yard, crushing their Halloween skeleton.

Since then, the mother-daughter bonding conversations have been swallowed whole by white-knuckled parental imperatives such as: “Turn that way, turn that way, TURN THAT WAY!” Whenever we need to go somewhere together, I dutifully ask if she wants to drive. But in my head I issue a silent prayer: “Please say no, please say no, please say no.”

She nearly always says yes.

I try to be calm as we navigate past curves that suddenly seem overpopulated by joggers and bicyclists and dog walkers alongside us. I try to disguise every flinch. But Carly doesn’t buy it. “Mom, stop.

You’re stressing me out!”

Now and then I’ll try positive reinforcement. (“Nice job checking your blind spot!”) But that only lasts until the moment she lurches to a stop and then proceeds to turn without looking both ways.

“You didn’t look left! You didn’t look left!” I screech, my right foot pumping the phantom brake pedal.

Not too long ago, after one such nerve-rattling commute, we arrived at our destination: Carly’s choir practice. I plastered on a smile, called out, “Sing pretty,” and walked, with wobbly legs, over to the driver’s side to head back home.

The risk-to-benefit ratio of the drives has shifted. She isn’t quite the talker now that she was as a child. I know that every ride is a window into her adolescent world.

And now I see that window closing. Carly got her license two weeks ago. A Winter Park High School parking permit has taken up permanent residence on our windshield. She drives herself to saxophone lessons and Starbucks.

Carly emerges from choir practice. I unbuckle the seat belt and begin to get out of the driver’s side. She opens the passenger door and motions me to stay put.

“You drive,” pipes up Carly. I smile and say a silent prayer of thanks.

“So, Mom, guess what?”

I love the sound of that voice. n Native Floridian and longtime Orlando columnist Mike Thomas is a freelance writer. You can reach him at mikethomas@mindspring.com.

NOVEMBER 2014

12/15/14 11:21:24 AM

WA

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For reservations, please call 877-406-2692. Visit WaldorfAstoriaOrlando.com/Spa

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*For your convenience a 20% service charge will be added to all spa services. Reservations for Spa are recommended and are subject to availability. Cannot be combined with any other offers or specials. Not valid for pre-contracted groups. Some restrictions may apply. Valid through January 31, 2015. Based on availability.

12OL_Jan-Feb15_Restless Native.indd 65

12/15/14 11:21:30 AM

NEW PERSONALIZED TREATMENTS. LUXURIOUS AND SOPHISTICATED SERVICE.

WALDORF ASTORIA SPA EXCLUSIVE

Regenerative Jade Facial

50-Minutes for $180* (A $215 Value) The ultimate expression of luxury is realized at the Waldorf AstoriaÂŽ Spa. Experience soothing environments, a holistic harmony of complete physical and emotional well-being and a new collection of customized offerings. From the transforming Regenerative Jade Facial to the lavish Golden Body Treatment, every treatment is tailored to your specific characteristics and aesthetic expectations.

For reservations, please call 877-406-2692. Visit WaldorfAstoriaOrlando.com/Spa

Š 201 5 Hilton Worldwide

*For your convenience a 20% service charge will be added to all spa services. Reservations for Spa are recommended and are subject to availability. Cannot be combined with any other offers or specials. Not valid for pre-contracted groups. Some restrictions may apply. Valid through January 31, 2015. Based on availability.

12OL_Jan-Feb15_Restless Native.indd 65

12/15/14 1:46:11 PM

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12/15/14 2:25:06 PM