The inaugural Portrait of a Woman Spring Luncheon was held at a private club in Palm Beach.
“More than 115 supporters attended the successful fundraising luncheon for Quantum House while simultaneously honoring nine incredible local ladies during Women’s History Month,” said benefit founder Renee D. Plevy, who is also a celebrated portrait artist.
“This event saluted accomplished women throughout Palm Beach County for their major long-term contributions to our communities, as well as to individuals, businesses, civic organizations and charities,” agreed event Co-Chair Bobbi Shorr.
“We wanted to inspire others to get involved just like our matriarchs and honorees have throughout their lives,” added Plevy.
The ladies honored at the recent Portrait of a Woman Spring Luncheon were Dorothy Sullivan (Grand Honoree), the Countess Henrietta de Hoernle (Grand Honorary Matriarch), Honorary Matriarchs Helen Babione and Suzy Minkoff and five special Honorees, Bobbi Horwich, Lynda Levitsky, Jacqueline Keeley, Sherry Frankel and Dr. Maria M. Vallejo.
The distinguished ladies were honored in a unique and very personal way at the luncheon with the official unveiling of original oil portraits of the honorees, all painted by artist and businesswoman Renee Plevy, who founded the event.
“We are very pleased to announce that the first Portrait of a Woman Spring Luncheon raised significant funds to benefit Quantum House, a nonprofit hospital hospitality house, the only facility of its kind between Fort Lauderdale and Orlando. Quantum House was established in May 2001 to provide a caring and supportive home that lessens the burden for families whose children are receiving treatment in Palm Beach County for a serious medical condition,” said Plevy.
Luncheon highlights included emcee Tim Byrd (The Byrdman), singer Philippe, a moving video tribute to Countess de Hoernle and the other honorees by videographer Jack Schulman, and the emotional display of all the beautiful portraits of the honorees. Gina Sullivan unveiled the 24 x 30 oil portrait of her grandmother, Grand Honoree Dorothy Sullivan.
Committee members for the first Portrait of a Woman Spring Luncheon include Lani Click, Lina Blanco Jankus, Maya Johnson, Roberta Jurney, Peggy Kelleher and Patricia Turner. Event sponsors were Sherry Plevy Arenstein, Etonella Christlieb, Monica Erickson, Dolly Hand and the Palm Beach State College Foundation.
The Portrait of a Woman Exhibition opened May 3 and runs through June 3 at the Jan & Gary Dario Gallery, located on the Lake Worth campus of Palm Beach State College.