This page includes video interviews of some of our Branch’s long standing members who describe what being a Pen Woman means for them, about their creative field, and some historical perspectives of the Orlando/Winter Park Branch as briefly described in the History Page.
Beatrice Athanas is an oil painter who paints beautiful landscape scenes and people. Many of her compositions are based on her travels to Europe and elsewhere. She was president of the local branch for the two years 2003-2004. Her interest is having collaborative projects that involve all 3 creative fields addressing a particular theme. Interview was conducted July 29, 2009.
Dorothy Hales worked in many different media – made her own furniture and lamps in addition to etching plastic and painting portraits, landscapes and still life both large and miniature. Dorothy was president of our local branch during 1980-82 and 1992-94. She was also president of the Florida State Chapter. Interview was conducted February 12, 2009 when she was 96 years young. Dorothy passed away in March 2013 at the age of 99.
Carol Leff is a writer with considerable experience in the news field. She relates in her interview the wonderful days of having regular branch meetings at the now demolished Langford Hotel in Winter Park where famous artists and writers came. Carol was president of our local branch during 1974-75 and 1990-92. Interview was conducted May 30, 2009.
Jane Oskinski is a writer who has done all kinds of writing except for mysteries. Jane joined the Orlando branch in 1981 before it merged with the Winter Park Group in 1996. She was president of the Orlando/Winter Park Branch during 1996-97. Interview was conducted June 18, 2009.