What better way to learn about the lives of bears than living in their natural habitat? David Bittner, a biologist and nature photographer, has returned to the Alaskan wild most summers over the past 15 years to study and record the grizzly life, even building a certain trust with certain individual creatures. Bittner will speak at the upcoming PINC conference in Sarasota on December 8, but SRQ spoke with the wild scientist in anticipation of the event.

What do you learn through extended stays in the habitats of fish and bears that you could not otherwise glean? Bittner: Bears are very special and individual animals. It is the character of a few bears which really struck me when I first travelled to this remote region in Alaska. Compared to most other bears, there are a few that have a very small home range and behave extraordinarily tolerantly towards my, and likely other, human presence. With numerous encounters and corresponding patience, they approach of their own will. It seems as if it is possible to build some sort of level of trust, which was very surprising to me and which I thought would not be possible with wild grizzly bears. The annual return of the Pacific salmon is such an incredible event that one must see this on his/her own. The evolutionary interaction between bears and salmon is also extraordinary and bears act as vectors in driving evolutionary processes, for example, sockeye salmon morphology at particular streams I know. 

As good a relationship to the bears may develop, how do you avoid being the next Timothy Treadwell, who was killed by bears in the wild? I am very different than Timothy. I have a PhD in evolution and ecology and have grown up being outdoors. Travelling in bear country, you should stick with the most basic rules, such as choosing your campsite, protecting your campsite, dealing with food in camp and tent, carrying bear deterrents, not approaching bears, making sure you do not surprise a bear, making your presence around bears known, making noise when necessary, etc. Most importantly, treat all bears respectfully. In my opinion, this tragic accident could have been avoided if only he or his girlfriend were carrying bear deterrents (spray and flare) or at least protected their camp with an electric fence or, even better, had chosen a different camp site. But these were all issues Treadwell was fully aware of and neglected on purpose. He simply pushed it too far. Many people compare me with Treadwell and think I will end the same way. I may, but people that know me or have been in the field with me can fully confirm that I am a very cautious person and especially since I became a dad also a very responsible person, especially when being around bears. 

Learn More about PINC here

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Toughenuff, 8959 US Hwy 301 N, Parrish, 941-417-2680.

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, pumpkin cravings are stronger than ever. Chef Ben Gough from Madfish Grill prepares a pumpkin ravioli with mascarpone cream ideal for the holiday season. Described as a guest favorite served every fall, the square-shaped little cases of dough are stuffed with pumpkin, making each bite of pasta delicate and effortless. Showered in mascarpone cream sauce, the dish is topped with fresh sage and basil allowing the flavor of the pumpkin to shine through. Sprinkles of applewood bacon are added to the plate for a touch of smoke and crispy onion rings are incorporated to provide a crunchy texture to this intricate entree. “This dish says fall, even if the weather doesn’t,” says Chef Gough. Pumpkin lovers will be swooning over this dish; you’ll want to savor and appreciate every morsel. 

Madfish Grill, 4059 Cattlemen Rd., 941-377-3474.

Madfish Grill is a member of Nosh, the SRQ magazine content marketing program for local restaurants.

Madfish Grill

Rafael Robles has recently joined the Loveland Center, a not-for-profit organization providing educational, vocational and residential services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as its chief development officer. Robles brings a multicultural approach to the Loveland Center, with more than 20 years of experience in higher education and fundraising. In this senior leadership role, Robles will support the Loveland Center’s strategic philanthropic objectives. Prior to joining Loveland Center, Robles served as a philanthropy officer for Tidewell Hospice in Sarasota. Robles holds bachelor’s degrees in comparative literature from Columbia University in New York, and French studies from Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH.  

Loveland Center

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art has announced the appointment of Michelle Moseley as senior development officer, working with the Florida State University Foundation team. In this role, Moseley will work with individual donors who wish to provide major gifts in support of the museum, sponsorships for exhibitions and programming as well as overseeing the annual fund. Moseley brings experience in major gift fundraising along with a passion and strong knowledge of the arts and museums to the Ringling. Moseley holds a bachelor of fine arts in studio art and a master’s degree in education with an emphasis in art from the University of Central Oklahoma.  

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast has attained the coveted 4-star rating awarded by Charity Navigator, for the second year. The rating, which is based on strong financial health and commitment to greater accountability and transparency, is earned consistently by less than a quarter of rated charities. This accomplishment signifies commitment to the sector’s best practices, efficiency and strong performance. A nationally accredited land trust, the foundation purchases natural areas, holds land conservation agreements and educates for responsible land and water stewardship in Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee counties.  

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast