Tampa Bay Lawsuit Settled

Bill Edwards Presents and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Tampa Bay, Fla., have settled a 2012 lawsuit.

Edwards of St. Petersburg, who owns the Club at Treasure Island and manages the Mahaffey Theatre, accused staffers at Ruth Eckerd of unfair business practices – namely “bullying tactics” – and making disparaging comments about him to comedian Louie Anderson and actor

Edwards of St. Petersburg, who owns the Club at Treasure Island and manages the Mahaffey Theatre, according to the Tampa Bay Times.

Edwards alleged the two men were strong-armed to back out of shows last year.

The two parties have issued a joint statement and, under the agreement, neither admits liability.

“The settlement will facilitate the ability of all parties to continue to bring high quality, live entertainment to the people who live in and visit the Tampa Bay area,” the statement said.

Ruth Eckerd talent buyer Bobby Rossi had no further comment.

Edwards’ Big 3 Entertainment and Ruth Eckerd vied for managing the Mahaffey.

City leaders went with Mahaffey in 2011.