Meet the Leaders of the Southwest Florida Blues Society
Our Officers and Directors
Discover the dedicated individuals steering the Southwest Florida Blues Society towards its mission of promoting blues music in our community.
,,Our New Board Members, serve for 1 year, October 2025 – October 2026
Officers will serve for 2 year’s, until October 2027,
Scroll Down for more info ..
- Our Newest Board Members and Officers can be found below.
- We are always looking for help with, Committee Members and special event Volunteers.
- If You Have Committee Questions, or want to Sign-up as an event Volunteer, contact Adrian Pfeffer at, adrianp@swfbs.org
Our Dedicated Team
Our team is composed of passionate individuals committed to the growth and success of the blues community in Southwest Florida. Below you’ll find our new group of SWFBS Officers. Scroll down further to find our complete compliment of Board Members.
OFFICERS:
Julius Sazlzy
PRESIDENT
Julius is new to the SWFBS Board of Directors, and our newly elected president, as such will serve a 2 year term, his term will extend until the 2027 annual meeting and elections held usually in October..
Extended Bio here ..
eMail: juliuss@swfbs.org
Adrian Pfeffer
VICE PRESIDENT
Adrian Pfeffer has periodically served as a Board Member and Officer since 2012. Adrian has also been Chair of our Volunteers Committee, the Social Media Committee, and assists with our
Membership Committee.
Her current term will extend until the 2027 annual meeting and elections held usually in October.
email, adrianp@swfbs.org
Peggy Lazer
SECRETARY
Peggy has previously served as a Board Member and Officer. She has also been involved with our Volunteers Committee, Membeship Director and our Society On the Go, efforts. Peggy moved to Ft Myers alone from MN early 2020, attracted by the climate and blues scene. Peggy has served in various positions while being a member of the SWFBS.
eMail: peggyl@swfbs.org
Tara LaGrande
TREASURER
Tara has been a past SWFBS Board Member, Officer and Volunteer.
I became involved with the blues music scene while in Florida which has led me to various blues festivals around the country. My ultimate favorite venue is the Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise followed by the Big Blues Bender.
eMail: taral@swfbs.org
Al Boehmer
Membership Director
Al, is new to the SWFBS Board of Directors, and is our newly elected Membership Director, as such will serve a 2 year term his term will extend until the 2027 annual meeting and elections held usually in October..I moved here from Annapolis, MD 9 years ago. In my professional career I was VP of a communications firm that designed and sold high end communications systems for hospitals in Maryland, Washington, DC and Northern Virginia.
eMail: alb@swfbs.org
BOARD MEMBERS AT LARGE: 2025-2026
Mike Danley
Board Member
Mike has been on the SWFBS Board of Ddirectors for numersou years. Volunteering, Merchandising and Photography.
eMail: miked@swfbs.org
Jim Frock
Board Member
Jime has been a previous SWFBS Bboard Member and Interested in working on Guitars for Vets programs among other goals and objectives of the SWFBS
email, jimf@swfbs.org
Brisn Tormey
Board Member
Brian is originally from Brooklyn, NY. he came to Florida in 1997, and SW FL in 2000. Brian is a former broadcast technician for HBO in Long Island, NY.
I’m an avid music lover and especially live music.
eMail: briant@swfbs.org
Pat McLaughlin
TREASURER
Pat has been a professional musician for about 30 years, and a lifetime member of the MN Blues Society. Pat has become a FL resident spending his winters in Cape Coral. Pat is also an advicate for Music for Vets programs.
eMail: patm@swfbs.org
Melissa Poff
Board Member
eMail: melissap@swfbs.org
Sizzlin' Steve Mislyan
Board Member
Steve has been a member of SWFBS for just under one year, and a member of the Suncoast Blues Society since 1997.
eMail: stevem@swfbs.org
Building Blocks From The Past
The Southwest Florida Blues Society owes its vibrant existence to the dedication and vision of our incorporators, founders, past members, board members and officers, whose tireless efforts laid the foundation for our local blues community. Their commitment to celebrating and preserving the rich tapestry of blues music has inspired local musicians and fans alike, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and creativity that resonates throughout Southwest Florida. As we honor their contributions, we continue to build upon their legacy, uniting passionate individuals who share a love for the blues and a desire to nurture this cherished art form for years to come.
PREVIOUS OFFICERS:
PREVIOUS BOARD MEMBERS:
JERRY TOLLIVER, 2011 – 2025 Incorperator, Founding Member, President, V.P., Board Member at Large, Organizational Development, Various Committees, Web Development, Graphics.
MEL SURAN, 2011 – 2025 Founding Member, Membership Director, Board Member at Large, Organizational Development, Social Media, Various Committees, IBC, Best Self-Produced CD, and more ..
STAN BUFORD – 2011 – 2012, Founding Member, Director.
CAROL SURAN, 2011 – 2025 President, V.P., Secretary, Treasurer, Society on The Go, Volunteer Various Committees, IBC, Best Self-Produced CD, .
KENT NEWMAN, 2012 – 2025 President, V.P., Treasurer, Various Committees, IBC, Best Self-Produced CD, .
KEVIN BARRY, 2012 – 20– V.P., Various Committees, IBC, Best Self-Produced CD, .
ADRIAN PFEFFER, 2012 – 2025 Secretary, V.P., Social Media, Various Committees, Society on The Go.
Committees Overview
Events Committee
Responsible for organizing and managing all society events, ensuring they run smoothly and successfully.
Membership Committee
Focuses on recruiting new members and retaining existing ones through engaging initiatives.
Marketing Committee
Handles all promotional activities to increase the society’s visibility and reach.
Education Committee
Develops programs to educate the community about the history and significance of blues music.
Fundraising Committee
Works on securing financial support through various fundraising activities and sponsorships.
Community Outreach Committee
Engages with local communities to foster a love for blues music and culture.
Volunteer Committee
Coordinates volunteer efforts to support the society’s events and initiatives.
Technology Committee
Ensures the society’s digital presence is up-to-date and effective.
Previous Directors
- John Smith (2010-2015) – Expanded membership by 30% and initiated the annual blues festival.
- Mary Johnson (2015-2018) – Strengthened community partnerships and launched youth music programs.
- Robert Brown (2018-2020) – Led successful fundraising campaigns and enhanced digital presence.
- Linda Davis (2020-2022) – Advocated for local artists and increased event attendance by 50%.
- James Wilson (2022-2023) – Implemented educational workshops and improved member engagement.
- Patricia Taylor (2023-Present) – Focused on diversity initiatives and expanded regional outreach.
- Michael Green (2008-2010) – Developed strategic plans and improved financial stability.
- Susan White (2006-2008) – Enhanced volunteer programs and organized community events.
- David Lee (2004-2006) – Initiated artist residency programs and increased sponsorships.
- Barbara King (2002-2004) – Promoted local talent and established the annual awards ceremony.
- Kevin Harris (2000-2002) – Strengthened ties with national blues organizations and grew membership.
- Laura Scott (1998-2000) – Launched the first blues education series and expanded media coverage.
- Thomas Clark (1996-1998) – Fostered community engagement and increased festival participation.
- Angela Martinez (1994-1996) – Developed youth outreach programs and secured grant funding.
- Steven Young (1992-1994) – Enhanced marketing efforts and improved event logistics.
- Rebecca Hall (1990-1992) – Advocated for blues preservation and expanded educational initiatives.
- Richard Adams (1988-1990) – Increased membership and organized the first regional blues tour.
- Deborah Nelson (1986-1988) – Established the society’s foundational goals and mission.
Our Goals and Objectives
The Southwest Florida Blues Society is committed to promoting the rich heritage of blues music while fostering a vibrant community of enthusiasts and musicians. Our primary goals include expanding our educational programs to reach more schools and community centers, increasing membership engagement through interactive events, and enhancing our digital presence to connect with a broader audience. We aspire to host larger festivals that attract international artists and audiences, thereby elevating the cultural profile of Southwest Florida. By forging new partnerships and securing sustainable funding, we aim to ensure the longevity and impact of blues music in our region.
Looking to the future, the Southwest Florida Blues Society aims to become a leading voice in the blues community, advocating for the preservation and innovation of this timeless genre. We plan to introduce mentorship programs that connect seasoned musicians with emerging talent, fostering a nurturing environment for artistic growth. Our objectives also include increasing our outreach to underrepresented communities, ensuring that the blues remains an inclusive and diverse art form. By continuing to celebrate the legacy of blues music, we strive to inspire future generations and keep the spirit of the blues alive in Southwest Florida.
Our vision for the Southwest Florida Blues Society encompasses a thriving community where blues music is celebrated and cherished. We are dedicated to creating opportunities for local artists to showcase their talents and gain exposure on larger platforms. Our goals include hosting workshops and masterclasses that provide invaluable learning experiences for musicians of all levels. By collaborating with other cultural organizations, we aim to create a network of support that amplifies the reach and impact of blues music. Together, we can ensure that the blues continues to resonate with audiences both locally and globally.
Celebrating Our Achievements
Major Milestones of the Southwest Florida Blues Society
Celebrating Our Achievements
Major Milestones of the Southwest Florida Blues Society
Join Our Mission to Keep the Blues Alive
Become a part of the vibrant Southwest Florida Blues Society community. Your involvement helps us preserve the rich heritage of blues music and support local artists. Whether you join as a member or contribute to our initiatives, your support makes a difference.