Social Seens... Photography by Gram
Food, Wine and Chocolate
Bill Brown, the owner and chief chocolatier of international award-winning William Dean Chocolates, hosted an event
at his store in Belleair Bluffs to help raise funds for and increase awareness of Cystic Fibrosis. The heartwarming evening
of tastings included the opportunity to create your own chocolate bars. It was attended by Bill’s guests and by family
members from Kansas, that included two of his young nieces who are afflicted with Cystic Fibrosis. C.F. is a relatively
rare disease that affects the lungs, digestive systems and the entire lives of those who suffer from it. Fortunately, a new
drug brings hope to them and to other sufferers. Proceeds from sales of Bill’s specially created dark chocolate and rose
petal candy bars will help fund the search for a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.
Glass artist Duncan McClellan, who attended
with his wife Irene, created a “65 roses,” vase
for the benefit to mimic many children’s
pronunciation of “Cystic Fibrosis.”
Michelle Ponte and her husband Chef Chris
of Cafe Ponte in Clearwater supplied the
impressive selection of heavy hors d’oeuvres
for this heart-warming fundraiser.
Scott Kessler of Empath Health and award-
winning chocolatier Bill Brown orchestrated
this tasty benefit for Cystic Fibrosis at Bill’s
William Dean Chocolates in Belleair Bluffs.
Paula and James Paxton admired the chocolate statue
that was created especially for the Cystic Fibrosis
benefit, which they helped Bill Brown coordinate.
Teresa and The Honorable Frank Hibbard,
the former mayor of Clearwater, who acted
as emcee, were happy to help raise funds
to fight this rare, genetic disease.
Elif Fitzgerald, who owns Pure Life
Medi-Spa in Largo with her husband
Dr. Joe Fitzgerald, was the high bidder
for the Duncan McClellan blown
glass “65 Roses” vase.
174 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015