Lifestyle Letter
What makes a woman influential? It’s not about titles or recognition, it’s about impact. It’s the way she shows up, the way she supports, the way she leads, often without even realizing the ripple effect she creates.
I’ve been shaped by two of the most influential women I know: my mother and my sister. My mom, an immigrant and single mother of three, built a life for us with sheer determination. With so much working against her, she still managed to raise three college graduates and carve out a future for herself and our family. She is the ultimate example of unwavering dedication. Proof that influence isn’t about having it easy, but about pushing forward anyway.
Then there’s my sister; my rock, my best friend, the one who lifts me up and reminds me of who I am. She leads with love, proving that influence isn’t just about what you do, but how you make people feel.
As a mother myself, I see influence in a whole new way. It’s in the small moments, the lessons we pass down, the quiet strength we show when no one is watching.
Our May Women’s issue is a celebration of those women; the ones who inspire, uplift, and shape the world around them. We all have women in our lives who have made an impact, and this is our chance to recognize them.
WENDY BLOOM, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Brande Brown | brande.brown@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Allston McEwan | allston.mcewan@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Wendy Bloom | wendy.bloom@citylifestyle.com
INTERNS
Nicole Levitt | hellowpcm@gmail.com
Brianna Streeter | hellowpcm@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Briana Streeter, Nicole Levitt, Josh and Marie Ojeda, Amanda Kossina, Wendy Bloom
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Amanda Kossina, Josh and Marie Ojeda
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Proverbs 3:5-6
inside the issue
Breaking Barriers in Music
city scene
1: Bernard Foong, Kelly Graham, and Walter Bissett: Orlando Ballet 2: Musette Hood, JJ Mackle, Kelley Graham, Cynthia Chamberlin, Alicia Lacy, Alice Drury; Banyans & Underpinnings 3: Friends of Bang and Olufsen & Winter Park City Magazine at Vinyl Night 4: Grace Urwin, Dwayne Kent, Michael Thompson, Jonathan Faucher, Ana Milo, Tyler Cehelnik 5: JJ Mackle, Allston McEwan, Maggie LeClair, Cynthia Chamberlin, Crystal Priester, Lindsay Matteoni, Zulfiya Gilmanova 6: Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando’s 2025 Trustee Reception presented by Travel + Leisure 7: Elizabeth McEwan, Drayton Ball, Allston McEwan (Editor), Robert & Monica McEwan, Amy Steele, Michael McEwan
8: Marina O’Maley, Lily Soboleva, Zulfiya Gilmanova of Edstone Inc; WPCM Issue Drop Party 9: Alexandra Galford, Lisa L, Luana Ortiz, Karina SaadDelgado: Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando’s Trustee Reception 10: Chef Alex Jones celebrating his featured article, WPCM March Issue Drop Party, Lamp & Shade 11: Barbara & Kait Doulou celebrating Attainable Housing feature, WPCM March Drop Party, Lamp & Shade 12: Jamie LeGrand and Wendy Bloom (WPCM Publication Director); Small Business Expo 13: Amanda McDowell, Bethany Bennett (Interior Designer, WPCM March Cover), Sam Ambruster, Rebecca Devine, Eric Waller 14: Debbie Arlington, Kait Doulou, Michele Daughtery, Amy Kennedy; Hard Hat Mavens Golf Tournament
Non-Profits
with Non-Profits” benefitting Entryway
15: Caleb Paull and Jeff Vahle, President of Walt Disney World; Orlando Business Journal’s Power Breakfast 16: Alexandra Galford, Lisa L, Luana Ortiz, Karina Saad-Delgado: Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando’s Trustee Reception 17: Caleb Paull, Ana Milo, Tyler Cehelnik; Citrus Club’s Networking with
18: Citrus Social’s “Networking
CFL 19: Bethany Bennett, Allston McEwan (Editor) celebrating Bethany Bennett Design Co’s kitchen design on WPCM Cover 20: Erin Huntley, Julio Solorzano (Local Artist), Kait Doulou, Michael Miller
Celebrating 70 Years of Caring for Winter Park
This community means everything to us For 70 years, AdventHealth Winter Park has grown right alongside you as Winter Park’s dedicated hospital. We’re proud to be at the heart of this beautiful place, and with highly skilled specialists, expert emergency care, and the area’s most personalized mother and baby care, we look forward to being part of your family for generations to come. AdventHealthWinterPark.com
Packwood’s Bring Craft Cocktail Excellence to Maitland
Packwood’s Cocktail Bar exudes refined elegance, seamlessly blending modern sophistication with timeless luxury. Named in homage to the original Packwood Hall, a historic social hub in Maitland, it celebrates the artistry of classic cocktails. Each libation is crafted with precision, using the finest ingredients for an unforgettable experience. With an ambiance of charm and distinction, Packwood’s is more than a destination—it’s a tribute to taste, culture, and impeccable service, where every sip tells a story.
The Bryter Solution
For all your home renovation and handyman needs, Bryte Solutions is your one-stop shop, servicing all around Central Florida. Owner Jordin Cantu, with over five years of experience, is passionate about delivering topquality work at competitive prices. From pressure washing and demolition to window and door installation, Bryte Solutions does it all with expertise and dedication. Reach out today for a quote! 407-618-3033
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WR & Associates Grand Opening in Winter Park
WR & Associates, P.A. recently celebrated the grand opening of their new accounting office at 506 N. Wymore Rd. With a commitment to exceptional financial services, the expanded space enhances their ability to serve clients with personalized accounting, tax, and business advisory solutions. Visit WR & Associates, P.A. for expert guidance tailored to your financial success.
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ARTICLE BY BRIANNA STREETER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXANDRA WAGNER OF KOSSINA CREATIVE
BREAKING BARRIERS in Music
MEET MAL CAN’T HEAR YOU: INSPIRING BOTH DEAF AND HEARING COMMUNITIES THROUGH MUSIC AND RESILIENCE
Can you share a bit about your journey as a deaf recording artist? What inspired you to pursue music?
“I feel that those in the Hearing community have this misconception that we in the Deaf/HoH community are shy and quiet, and that is far from the truth. As a child, I was the loudest kid in the house. If you were to ask my mother, she will tell you that I was singing from the moment I entered this world. Growing up, we had a piano in the house, and I would push the piano keys, laying my head on them to feel the vibrations better. My sister introduced me to High School Musical, and I knew from then on I wanted to be a performer.”
“I don’t write to be understood, I write so I can’t be misunderstood. I hope people know they can be whoever they want to be.”
Follow and Book @malcanthearyou on social media; Photo by Kossina Creative Photo Studio by Associate Photographer Alexandra Wagner
Follow Mal @malcanthearyou on Instagram.
Photo by Kossina Creative Photo Studio by
Associate Photographer Alexandra Wagner
What challenges have you faced as a deaf artist in the music industry? How have you overcome them?
“Ironically, singing on key is not the hardest part for me—rather, it is my diction that I struggle with the most. I was bullied in school for my deaf accent and lack of diction, and when I was 14, I met my vocal and diction coach, Bill Gunn, who has been working with me for over 10 years. When collaborating with musicians, we establish extra cues for precise timing, and I use vibrations to feel different frequencies.”
How do you experience and interpret music in a way that allows you to create and perform?
“Vibration is an integral component of how I create music and perform. I can feel a low note because the sound waves are bigger and the vibrations feel thicker, while a high note has little to no sound waves or vibrations. I have profound hearing loss, and the best way I can describe it is like being in a small room with earplugs, packed with Styrofoam—everything is muffled. I use ASL, can read lips, but often rely on context to understand conversations.”
What messages do you hope to convey through your music?
“I don’t write to be understood—I write so that I can’t be misunderstood. Most of my work is about empowerment. “Dear Mr. Devil” is a song I wrote when I was coming out of a season of struggling with depression and anxiety. “Like the Boys” is about inequality and stereotypes, while “Control” is an empowering anthem about anti-bullying. I don’t like to be handcuffed to one genre—each song carries a different message.”
How do you hope your story impacts the way people perceive music and the deaf community?
“I hope my story clears any misconceptions about the Deaf and HoH community not being capable of enjoying music. It’s not just about sound—it’s about rhythms, vibrations, and the feeling you get from the lyrics. I hope my story inspires people to learn sign language and Deaf Culture, and that my music encourages them to go for their dreams. Anything is possible with hard work and faith.”
Photo by Kossina Creative Photo Studio by Associate Photographer Alexandra Wagner
Photo by Kossina Creative Photo Studio by Associate Photographer Alexandra Wagner
Shaping Winter Park’s Future, One Woman At A Time
Women of Impact
ARTICLE BY NICOLE LEVITT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA KOSSINA WITH KOSSINA CREATIVE
2025 Women of Impact: Laine Powell, Sarah Sprinkel, Mayor Sheila DeCiccio, & Hope Valentine (Photo by Kossina Creative Photography)
Winter Park is home to many significant women from diverse backgrounds who are making a difference in the community. Some have built businesses from the ground up, while others are deeply involved in philanthropy or mentor younger women to follow in their footsteps. One common thread among these women is their profound impact on Winter Park. Their pride for the city runs deep, and they are dedicated to creating a better future for the next generation of women.
One such trailblazer is Mayor Sheila DeCiccio, who made history as Winter Park’s first female mayor. For DeCiccio, her campaign was not about breaking barriers but rather about experience, dedication, and a deep understanding of the city she serves. “I didn’t run on being the first woman mayor—I ran on my experience, my record, and my deep knowledge of Winter Park,” she explains. “The residents overwhelmingly supported me based on my qualifications, not my gender, and that speaks volumes.
DeCiccio acknowledges the significance of her achievement, recognizing that each milestone paves the way for future generations. Reflecting on her journey, DeCiccio credits her mother as a key influence in shaping her leadership. “My mother was my first and greatest influence—always encouraging me to pursue my dreams with confidence and resilience,” she says. Drawing inspiration from figures like Sandra Day O’Connor, she believes in the importance of patience and adaptability for young women aspiring to leadership roles. “Your path may not be linear, and that’s okay,” she advises.
Sarah Sprinkel, Laine Powell, Sheila DeCiccio, & Hope Valentine
Wendy Bloom (Publication Director) Laine Powell, Sarah Sprinkel, Sheila DeCiccio, Hope Valentine, Amanda Kossina (Photographer)
2025 Women of Impact: Dr. Laine Powell, Sarah Sprinkel, Mayor Sheila DeCiccio, & Hope Valentine
“Every experience along the way teaches you something invaluable. Be patient with yourself.” —Mayor Sheila DeCiccio
Hope Valentine is another remarkable leader who balances professional success with philanthropic efforts. When discussing essential leadership qualities, she emphasizes mentorship and trust. “Several leadership qualities are essential for success, and each one plays a significant role in creating a productive and positive environment,” Valentine explains. Valentine is deeply involved in the Hope for More Foundation, which aims to directly impact the lives of children and families in need. She shares, “Taking on a leadership role in philanthropy is inspired by a combination of personal values, experiences, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference. The smiles we create in a child’s life can be a lifetime memory. I feel honored to be part of such a great group of professionals!”
Valentine credits her grandmothers as strong role models who ran businesses, volunteered, and formed their own companies while being there for their families. “They were fun, caring, and well-respected in the community. I wish they could see me now. I think they would be proud!”
Sarah Sprinkel, a lifelong educator and mentor, has dedicated her career to making a difference in the lives of children and families. She shares her unique perspective on the challenges women face in her industry: “I never felt anything but lucky to be a woman. Being a woman was always an advantage as I saw it, especially in fields more run by women than men. I was taught I could be and do anything I chose, and I think I never doubted that.”
“Get involved, don’t stand by, stay in it. Never give up.
Set your goals and work to reach them.”
—Sarah Sprinkel
Sprinkel credits women like Maya Angelou, Oprah Winfrey, and Virginia McIntyre for helping shape her along the years. Highlighting her leadership qualities, Sprinkel emphasizes her passion for lifelong learning: “I care. I am passionate. I believe in service to others and I don’t have a high need for accolades. A job well done is my greatest reward.”
Dr. Laine Powell, Founder and CEO of Tech Sassy Girlz, is another inspiring woman making an impact by empowering young women in STEM. Powell has witnessed firsthand how mentorship can change lives. She recalls Naia Butler-Craig, a participant in their collegiate program who earned a degree in Aerospace Engineering and interned with NASA. “Seeing girls like Naia succeed in STEM careers is why I do this work,” Powell shares.
Powell acknowledges the significant challenges women in STEM face, including lack of representation and funding for initiatives. “Each experience and setback has taught me to be more resilient and adaptable,” she
says. “My leadership approach has evolved into adopting a growth mindset and pivoting when needed.”
Regarding the future of STEM for women, Powell remains optimistic: “The future is bright, but we have a lot of work to do. Women make up only 28% of the computing workforce, and representation is even lower for women of color. We need to provide mentorship opportunities, industry partnerships, and exposure to STEM careers early on.”
Mayor DeCiccio, Hope Valentine, Sarah Sprinkel, and Laine Powell are just a few of the many women shaping Winter Park’s future. Each of these remarkable individuals brings unique strengths to the community— whether through leadership, mentorship, or innovation. These women honor the legacies of their mothers and grandmothers, who paved the way for their success. The values instilled in them form the foundation of their leadership. This strong connection to their roots drives their commitment to empower others, ensuring their impact will be felt for generations to come.
Mayor Sheila DeCiccio
Hope Valentine with Hope for More Foundation
Sarah Sprinkel, Educator & Mentor
Dr. Laine Powell, Founder and CEO of Tech Sassy Girlz
Restoring
Commercial Real Estate Value
Rolling Suds, the nation’s leading power washing franchise, dedicates its services to revitalizing and enhancing the value of commercial real estate properties.
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Off The Avenue
Crafted: Clermont’s New Fine Dining Gem
Worth the drive from Winter Park, Downtown Clermont has officially raised the bar for fine dining with the opening of Crafted Steakhouse, a sophisticated new gem located just off the charming Waterfront Park. Designed to deliver an elegant dining experience, Crafted brings together top-tier service, upscale ambiance, and expertly executed dishes— perfect for date nights, celebrations, or any evening on which you want to treat yourself to something exceptional.
The menu is a steak and seafood lover’s dream, featuring premium cuts of beef like Prime Filet, New York Strip, and Ribeye, all grilled to perfection. Seafood selections shine just as brightly, with standouts like Snapper, Scallops, and a beautifully prepared Lobster Bisque. Every dish reflects meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality ingredients.
“From the first sip to the final bite, every moment at Crafted feels intentional—an elevated dining experience where quality, creativity, and impeccable service come together in the heart of Clermont.”
Behind the scenes, Executive Chef Matt Maslowski leads the culinary vision with
a resume that speaks volumes. His career includes time as the Executive Chef at Busch Gardens and key roles in opening beloved Disney staples such as Tiffins Tree Top Lounge and Jungle Skipper Canteen. He also served as Head Pastry Chef at Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resort and played a significant role in reinventing the menu for the Epcot Food & Wine Festival.
Crafted’s menu truly showcases his talent, offering impressive options like A5 Japanese Wagyu Filets, Poached Lobster, and Smoked Chicken—each dish crafted with precision and artistry. The result is a dining experience that rivals Orlando’s finest, right in the heart of Clermont.
With its elegant atmosphere, refined menu, and seasoned culinary leadership, Crafted Steakhouse is setting a new standard for Clermont’s dining scene. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this is a memorable experience worth savoring—one delectable bite at a time.
Location: 801 W. Montrose Street, Clermont, FL
Reservations: craftedclermont.com
An elevated dining experience where quality, creativity, and impeccable service come together in the heart of Clermont. “
MEMORIES WITH MOM
WHY MOMS NEED TO GET IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA KOSSINA / KOSSINA CREATIVE
Talia and her 5 month old son.
Photo taken at Kossina Creative Photography
As moms, it’s easy to stay behind the camera, capturing every smile, milestone, and silly moment of our children’s lives. But one day, those photos will be their memories — and you’ll want to be in them too! Being present in photos shows your kids that you were part of those cherished moments, not just the one documenting them. Years from now, they’ll look back and see how much you were there — your smile, your hugs, your love. It’s not about looking perfect; it’s about being present. Your kids won’t care about messy hair or no makeup — they’ll care about seeing you by their side. So step in front of the lens. These moments are fleeting, but the memories will last forever.
Rebecca and her daughter during her first birthday photoshoot at the Kossina Creative Photo Studio
Spring Portrait of Mary and her son from her Mommy & Me photo Session at Kossina Creative photography
Jamie and her daughter during her Mommy and Me photo session at Kossina Creative Photography
Adoption Celebration Day for Deanna and her family. Deanna has fostered 5 children and been a teacher to over 2500 students.
McKay and Ezra Mommy and Me Photo by Meghan Vail Photography
Kacey and Riley enjoying time with their Aunt Sarah
THE MANY faces OF motherhood
Mother’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it is a tribute to the many forms of love, guidance, and care that shape the lives of children. Mothers come in many forms: the traditional mothers who nurture from birth, stepmothers who blend love into new families, and single mothers who shoulder the joys with unwavering strength.
We celebrate adoptive and foster mothers, who generously open their hearts and receive the greatest gifts in return; Surrogate mothers who unselfishly give the gift of life to those unable to carry a child themselves; Aunts and grandmothers who step in as second mothers, teachers who inspire, and pet moms who cherish their furbabies all embody the spirit of motherhood.
Every woman who offers warmth, support, and encouragement to a child—biological or not—deserves to be honored today. Motherhood is not just about birth; it is about love, sacrifice, and an unbreakable bond. We celebrate them all with gratitude in our hearts.
Happy Mother’s Day to every kind of mom.
Celebrating Everyone Who Loves, Guides, and Nurtures
ARTICLE BY ALLSTON MCEWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGHAN VAIL PHOTOGRAPHY
Grandmothers provide so much love & support
Furbabies need mothering too
WOMAN OF INFLUENCE 2025
Congratulations to our fierce and sassy leader, Dr. Laine Powell, founder and CEO of Tech Sassy Girlz on being recognized as a 2025 Woman of Influence.
Dr. Powell has dedicated her life to inspiring and empowering girls and women in STEM regardless of their zip codes. She firmly believes that leveraging technology is an opportunity for girls to be content creators, makers and entrepreneurs.
Her dedication, passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment has transformed the lives of over 3,000 girls in middle and high school.
Empowered girls power the world.™
ARTICLE BY WENDY BLOOM
More Than a Magazine
At Winter Park City Magazine, we’re more than just print. We’re a platform for connection, inspiration, and unforgettable experiences. Our calendar is packed with ways to engage beyond the magazine. This year, we’re elevating the game with bold, fresh events designed for entrepreneurs, creatives, and change-makers who crave more than the ordinary.
From our signature issue drop parties to immersive themed experiences and hands-on workshops, we’re creating spaces where ideas spark, collaborations form, and inspiration thrives. Whether it’s a morning of movement and mindfulness or an evening of networking and celebration, we’re bringing stories to life in ways that go far beyond the page.
This isn’t just a magazine—it’s a community. Make sure to follow us on Instagram (@ WinterParkCityMagazine) and Eventbrite to be the first to know when the next event drops!
Experience, Connect, and Elevate Beyond the Pages
Top Left: Winter Park City Magazine February Drop Party at Lamp & Shade. Bottom Left: Winter Park City Magazine September Drop Party at Porsche Orlando. Center: WPCM Drop Party, Porsche Orlando. Top Right: WPCM Sunrise Social at Bang & Olufsen. Bottom Right: Winter Park City Magazine March 2025 Drop Party at Lamp & Shade
