The Windsor Polo Field once again took on the appearance of Camelot, with lines of flag-topped cabanas dotting the northern end of the field for the 34th annual May Pops Spring Concert to benefit the Cleveland Clinic Indian River Foundation.
Sponsors and VIP guests enjoyed a catered pre-concert buffet while general admission concert-goers spread out on the south side of the lawn with their own picnic baskets. Although attendance was slightly lessened by the threat of storms, the rain, as in the fabled Camelot, did not “fall ’til after sundown.”
“On behalf of Cleveland Clinic Indian River Foundation, I want to say thank you to each and every one of you for joining us at our 34th May Pops. Many of you have been with us not just for a few years, but for decades. Your commitment has been the cornerstone for our success,” said Judy LaFage, foundation board chairman, who shared the welcome address with Roxanne Hall, foundation executive director.
“This is our final event of the season, and it is our privilege to celebrate and thank you, our faithful donors, friends and advocates, for all you do to advance our mission,” she added.
LaFage paid a special tribute to Helen Post, who was unfortunately unable to attend, and her late husband Dick, the presenting sponsors for more than 30 years.
“This evening also represents the culmination of a year’s worth of hard work, advocating, fundraising, and striving to improve the health of our community. For 2025, we have placed an even sharper focus on two things that we believe go hand in hand – making our hospital the best place to work and the best place to receive care,” said Hall.
“Philanthropy is a powerful catalyst, moving ideas into innovations and innovations into life-changing outcomes. By focusing not only on the patient journey but also on the caregiver experience, we are ensuring our patients receive not just the highest standard of care, but also the highest level of compassion and excellence,” said LaFage.
Hall said that thanks to the generosity of presenting sponsors Tom and Claire Joyce, a table had been set up at the front for caregivers and their spouses. Additionally, as VIP hospitality sponsors Chase and Wendy Carey could not attend, they chose to celebrate the outstanding work of the emergency department team by turning their table over to them.
“Their gifts reflect a sentiment we all share: deep appreciation for the people who make Cleveland Clinic Indian River such an extraordinary place,” said Hall, before highlight several caregivers who had been nominated for recognition by their peers, managers and leadership.
“And finally, to you, our donors: Your support powers everything we do. To our caregivers: Your compassion defines who we are. We are a team. Together, we are building a future where excellence in care and excellence in spirit live side by side,” said LaFage.
Each year, a guest conductor is invited to lead the orchestra for one piece and this time it was Nancy Milsten, in loving memory of her husband, Dr. Richard “Dick” Milsten, who passed away last October.
In classic Pops fashion, the Brevard Symphony Orchestra, led by conductor Christopher Confessore and joined by Broadway stars Alli Mauzey and Jeff Kready, delighted the crowd with beloved tunes from the stage and screen.
Proceeds from the event will support the Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital Strategic Priorities fund. For more information about the fund, call 772-226-4960.
Photos by Joshua Kodis
