Circus Ring of Fame to induct six new members

The Circus Ring of Fame will induct six new members in a ceremony beginning at 1:30 p.m. this Sunday, on St. Armands Circle.

Sarasota native and high wire performer Tino Wallenda-Zoppe, who is part of the famed “Flying Wallendas” family, will be inducted at this Sunday’s ceremony.

Other inductees are Rudi and Sue Lenz, whose chimpanzee act appeared in the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus for 14 years; John Pugh, long-time owner of Cole Bros., one of the largest tented circuses that exists today; veteran wild-animal trainer Manuel “Junior” Ruffin, who will become the first African-American member of the Ring of Fame; and flying trapeze artist Tony Steele, who is part of the Dime Wilson family.

Sunday’s ceremony will include a live concert of circus music by the Sarasota Circus Concert Band. For information, call 922-0838.

Contact Robin Hartill at [email protected].