Social Seens... Photography by Gram
Ruth Eckerd Hall’s Friends of Music
Ruth Eckerd Hall’s popular Friends of Music supporters gathered for an intimate concert with singer Rick Springfield. The
evening, billed as a “rockin’ red and black party,” began with a pre-show sampling of delectable delights like black truffle arancini
and a squid ink pasta bar, served to the sounds of local favorite Shaun Hopper and his electric violin duo. During Springfield and
his group’s rousing performance on the hall’s main stage, many of the Friends got up to dance and interact with the performers.
Desserts in the lobby followed. Guests left knowing they had had a great time, while enabling Ruth Eckerd Hall to continue its
lineup of amazing shows and educational programs.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Find out how to become a member of Ruth Eckerd Hall’s Friends of Music group by contacting Suzy Delaney at
(727) 712-2777, or email her at sdelaney@rutheckerdhall.net.
Photography by Gram
Empath Health and Suncoast Hospice at Bon Appétit
Empath Health, a network of care headquartered in Clearwater for those affected by chronic or advanced illness in Southwest
Florida, which includes Suncoast Hospice and the Tidewell Hospice Foundation, and is our country’s largest hospice-based
network of care, held a Sponsor Appreciation Reception for the nonprofit’s community champions, who continuously support the
organization and its Suncoast Hospice Ball benefit. The special reception was held at Bon Appétit Restaurant in Dunedin, where
guests enjoyed the water and sunset views from the upstairs party room, while sampling drinks and tastes that became dinner,
as they lingered well into the evening.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 | TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE 141
Marc Sachs and Dr. Paul Phillips chatted in
Ruth Eckerd Hall’s newly expanded lobby
during the hall’s Friends of Music
pre-Rick Springfield concert reception.
Nancy and David Bilheimer, whose
generosity enabled the hall to expand
its arts education programs throughout the
community, enjoyed the pre-party
and performance.
Sandra Nesbit, who along with her husband
Greg Willsey, is a loyal Ruth Eckerd Hall
supporter, left him at home to attend the
Rick Springfield party with girlfriends.
Kathy Wilder, vice chair of Suncoast Hospice
Foundation, who orchestrates and sponsors
many of its events, was thanked for her
dedication by Kathy Rabon, Empath Health’s
chief philanthropy and marketing officer.
Rafael Sciullo, CEO of Empath Health,
thanked Peter Kreuziger, co-owner of
Bon Appétit Restaurant in Dunedin, for
orchestrating the reception’s efficiently
served drinks and heavy hors d’oeuvres.
Diane and Rob Klingel of Redington Beach,
who are staunch supporters of Empath
Health, Suncoast Hospice and many other
charities, enjoyed visiting with friends during
the Sponsor Appreciation Reception.