Marco Island Academy Grad Receives Men’s Club Scholarship

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JB Holmes presents Scholarship to Julie Berger

Marco Island Academy (MAI) held their annual academic awards ceremony on May 19. Graduating senior Julia Berger was recognized as receiving a scholarship from the Men’s Club of Collier County Foundation.

The award is for $2250 per year for four years ($9000 total) to advance Julia’s academic career in nursing at Belmont University.

On hand for the ceremony was Dr JB Holmes of the Scholarship  Committee for the Men’s Club.

The Club currently supports four Maro Island Academy students. Julia will be the third student in our four-year program. Additionally, the Club supports an upper-classman, MIA grad Shahz Ramonov, under our Florida Gulf Coast University endowment fund.

An official presentation ceremony for Julia will be held at the Club’s breakfast meeting on June 5th at the Naples Hilton.

Scholarship Committee Report to the Membership – May 2026

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Joe Scheffey

We are pleased to wrap up another highly successful scholarship year. On behalf of the Committee, I want to thank our Club members and generous donors who make this program possible. Special appreciation goes to the Salute to Veterans program, which continues to provide the primary funding for our scholarships.

I also extend sincere thanks to our dedicated Committee members: Russell Tuff, Mike Nadolski, Erick Carter, Mike Lyster, Ed Thompson, Reg Buxton, and Dr. JB Holmes.

2026 Scholarship Awards This year we received 12 applications from four local high schools. After interviewing five finalists, we are awarding scholarships to four outstanding students:

  • Naples High School (2 recipients)
  • Barron Collier High School (1 recipient)
  • Marco Island Academy (1 recipient)

The recipients will attend the University of Florida, Notre Dame, Carnegie Mellon University, and Belmont University. We invite all Club members to join us at the official awards ceremony during our June 5th breakfast meeting at the Hilton. The students and their parents will be in attendance for this memorable event.

Program Growth and Funding We have increased annual funding from $2,000 to $2,250 per recipient, bringing the four-year commitment per new award to $9,000. This increase applies to both new recipients and our continuing scholars. As a result, we will support a record 12 students in our program this coming year — an all-time high in both funding and participation.

We also continue our long-standing support for one student at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) through our endowment. Committee members are currently updating our agreement with FGCU. Recent reports show a modest increase in endowment earnings, which will help offset our expanded commitments.

New Initiatives For the first time, Committee members will attend awards ceremonies at all high schools with recipients. This important public relations effort recognizes students in their school communities and strengthens relationships with faculty, parents, and guidance counselors — who remain key partners in identifying strong candidates.

We are also pleased to continue our support for iTech, the technical trade college program in Immokalee. Committee member and District 4 School Board representative Erick Carter will provide an update on iTech’s progress and needs at the June meeting.

Looking Ahead We encourage members to attend our summer meetings, where our current scholars will return to share updates on their academic progress and college experiences.

Challenges and Future Focus While we are proud of this year’s results, we received fewer applications than in recent years (12 from 4 schools compared to 15 from 8 schools last year). Expanding outreach to qualified students across all Naples-area schools will be a major priority for 2027.

We are also monitoring one scholar who is at risk of leaving the program due to academic performance.

The new funding model discussed at last month’s meeting continues to gain support, and we will keep the membership updated on its progress.

Overall, the Scholarship Program is building strong momentum. With the continued generosity of our members and donors, we are well-positioned to sustain and expand its impact in the years ahead.

Respectfully Submitted,

Joe Scheffey

Chairman, Scholarship Committee

Barron Collier Grad – Receives Men’s Scholarship

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Scholarsip Chair Joe Scheffey and Fitan O’Keefe

Barron Collier High School held their annual academic awards ceremony on April 27. Graduating senior Fitan O’Keefe was recognized as receiving a scholarship from the Men’s Club of Collier County Foundation.

The award is for $2250 per year for four years ($9000 total) to advance Fintan’s academic career in engineering at Carnegie Mellon University.

On hand for the ceremony was Joe Scheffey, Scholarship Chairman for the Men’s Club.

An official presentation ceremony will be held at the Club’s breakfast meeting on June 5th at the Naples Hilton.

The Right Men’s Club Launches Major New Funding Initiative for Scholarships and Veterans with a newly formed nonprofit, Men’s Club of Collier County Foundation, Inc

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Scholarship Chair Joseph Scheffey

Through the Foundation, The Right Men’s Club announced a significant expansion of its scholarship and veterans support programs.

The Men’s Club of Collier County Foundation, Inc was established last year to formalize and grow the Club’s charitable efforts. The Foundation currently awards scholarships to 3–5 outstanding Collier County high school seniors annually and provides grants to local veteran’s organizations and workforce programs such as iTech in Immokalee.

This year, the Foundation is increasing scholarship funding by more than 50% and doubling its annual support for veterans. By the end of 2026, the Foundation plans to provide $2,500 per year to 12 students — delivering $10,000 in total support per student over four years of college — while targeting $10,000 in veteran’s grants.

To fuel this expanded mission, the Foundation has launched a new matching gift campaign. A generous donor has already contributed $4,000 and will match new donations up to an additional $4,000, creating a total potential impact of $12,000. The overall campaign goal is $20,000.

These critical programs are funded in part by the annual Salute to Veterans event held each November. Contributions from members, businesses, and community partners will help sustain and grow this vital support for local students and veterans.

Tax-deductible donations may be sent to:

Men’s Club of Collier County Foundation, Inc. 2430 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 108 Naples, Florida 34109

Donate Below

Fill out my online form.

Who’s in and Who’s Out this Election Cycle

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Russell Tuff
President
The Right Men’s Club

Updated Republican Candidates (May 21, 2026)

(Redistricting changed congressional districts and expect changes to those races)

Federal Offices

US Senator

  • Ashley Moody is the incumbent, running against fellow Republicans
  • Chris Gleason,
  • Neelam Taneja Perry,
  • Ernest “Erinie” Rivera.

Congressional District 19

Nine Republican are currently vying for the nomination Congressional District 19, currently held by Byron Donalds (This may change due to Re-Districting):

  • Madison Cawthorne
  • Chris Collins
  • Ola Hawatmeh
  • Dylan Modarelli
  • James Oberweis
  • Mike Pedersen
  • Linda Sawyer
  • Jim Schwartzel
  • John Strand
  • Youschak II Richard Stephen

Congressional District 22

(New to Collier County) No Democrats have entered as of Florida Elections site on May 21.

  • Deborah Adeimy
  • David Buck
  • “LA” Lateresa Jones
  • Belinda Keiser
  • Herbert Wertheim

Local and State of Florida Races

Governor Race

The Florida Governor’s Race has our very own Byron Donalds, with a strong poll advantage, who will be running against a slew of opponents, with the top three also rans, including Lt Governor Jay Collins, Former Florida Speaker of the House Paul Renner, and outspoken candidate James Fishback, and 11 total running for the Republican ticket.

Florida Attorney General

  • Stephen Leskovich
  • James Uthmeier (incumbent)

Chief Financial Officer has four that have filed to run. They include:

  • Blaise Ingoglia (incumbent)
  • Frank William Collage
  • Joe Gruters

Commissioner of Agriculture

Three Republican candidates have filed. They include:

  • Richard Earl Olle Jr.
  • Wilton Simpson (incumbent)
  • Matt The Welder (I’m not making that up)

State Attorney

  • Amira Fox (incumbent) is running unopposed.

Public Defender

  • Kathleen A Smith

State Senator (District 28):

  • Lauren Melo (unopposed in the Republican primary)

State Representative Races 80 and 81 currently have no Republican challengers filed for the seats held by Adam Botana and Yvette Benarroch, respectively.

House District 82 (Lauren Melo’s former seat in eastern Collier County) has three Republican candidates:

  • Bill Poteet
  • Liesa Priddy
  • Hugo Vargas

(Note: Drew Montez-Clark has publicly withdrawn.)

State Legislative and Local Races – The qualifying period ends June 12th.

Circuit Judge (Seats 9, 11, 16, 17, 23, 25 and 32 are unopposed. Competitive races include:

Circuit Judge Seat 19

  • Vera Bergermann
  • James Stewart (incumbent)

Circuit Judge Seat 27

  • Ryan Kuhl
  • Amanda Levy-Reis

Collier County Commission

The Republicans signed up in the local races include: 

Collier County Commission District 2

  • Chris Hall (Incumbent) His opponent Ron Kezeske has publicly announced he will not be running)

Collier County Commission District 4

  • Daniel Kowal (Incumbent)
  • Daniel Zegarac

All of the area judges are unopposed

Collier County School Board (Nonpartisan)

Collier County School District 1

  • Jeff Donaldson
  • Stephanie Nordin
  • Democrat Opponent filed

Collier County School District 3

  • Kelly Mason
  • Travis Jones, and Michelle Albero withdrew)

Collier County School District 5

  • Tim Moshier
  • Democrat opponent filed

Collier Mosquito Control District Seat 1

  • Dave Farmer (Unopposed)

Collier Mosquito Control District Seat 2

  • Sandra Lee Buxton
  • Democrat opponent filed

City of Naples Airport Authority Seat 1

  • Richard Rupert

City of Naples Airport Authority Seat 2

  • Michelle Arnold

City of Naples Airport Authority Seat 3

  • Ralph Alberto

City of Naples Airport Authority Seat 4

  • John Goede
  • Rick Mellon

City of Naples Airport Authority Seat 5

  • Jason Keith Brooke
  • Keth West
  • There is a Democrat opponent

Collier Mosquito Control District Seat 3

  • Ed Brandt
  • Jay Kohlhagen

Greater Naples FD (E Naples Division) Seat 1

  • Mark Cherney (unopposed)

Greater Naples FD Seat 3

  • Brian Cross (unopposed)

Greater Naples FD (Golden Gate Div) Seat 4

  • Patrick Dearborn (Unopposed)

Immokalee Fire District Seat 1

  • Donald Gunthner (unopposed)

Immokalee Fire District Seat 4

  • No Republican Candidate

North Collier Fire District Seat 2

  • Stephan Popper is unopposed.

There is quite a number of Community Development Districts that have no opposition. They include Naples Heritage, Cedar Hammock, Verona Walk, Flow Way, Naples Reserve.

 

Other pertinent dates:

Primary Election

July 4 – Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots uniformed and overseas voters (UOCACA).th

July 9 – Beginning of mandatory window to mail domestic vote-by-mail ballots

August 9 – First day of early voting

August 6 (Thursday 5 pm)  – Last day to request a vote-by-mail ballot to be mailed.

August 15 Last day of early voting

August 18 (Tuesday) Primary Election Day: Polls are open 7 am to 7 pm

The Right Men’s Club of Collier County to Host 9th Annual Salute to Veterans Luncheon Featuring U.S. Army Ranger Hall of Fame Inductee Keni Thomas

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The Right Men’s Club of Collier County, through it’s nonprofit organization, Men’s Club of Collier County Foundation, Inc, invites the community to its November Luncheon and 9th Annual Salute to Veterans, headlined by decorated combat veteran, country music artist, and U.S. Army Ranger Hall of Fame inductee Keni Thomas.

This annual event honors the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans while bringing together members, guests, and supporters for an inspiring afternoon of camaraderie, recognition, and patriotism. Attendees will enjoy a luncheon followed by a compelling program featuring Thomas as the keynote speaker.

Keni Thomas, a former Staff Sergeant with the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, served in the elite Task Force Ranger during the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia — events famously depicted in the book and film Black Hawk Down. He earned the Bronze Star with Valor for his leadership and heroism under fire. After leaving the Army in 1997, Thomas built a successful career as a country music singer and songwriter, releasing patriotic albums inspired by his military experiences and his fallen brothers-in-arms. In 2025, he was inducted into the U.S. Army Ranger Hall of Fame in recognition of his distinguished service and ongoing contributions to veterans and military families.

As a motivational speaker, Thomas captivates audiences with powerful stories of leadership, resilience, and service. His appearance at the luncheon promises an unforgettable tribute to veterans and a message of inspiration for all.

A Special VIP program will be held prior celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the US and will feature a program honoring the highlights for military action during 250 years.

Event Details:

  • Event: November Luncheon – 9th Annual Salute to Veterans
  • Featured Speaker: Keni Thomas, U.S. Army Ranger Hall of Fame Inductee, Combat Veteran, and Country Music Artist
  • Date & Time: November 6, 2026, doors open at 11 AM] VIP 250th Anniversary room opens at 10 AM
  • Location: Naples Hilton
  • Tickets/Registration: Ticket prices begin at $175 for the luncheon. Ticket information can be found here.

About The Right Men’s Club of Collier County The Right Men’s Club of Collier County (formerly known as the Republican Men’s Club) provides a forum for fellowship, political engagement, and community support in Southwest Florida. The club awards scholarships to local students and hosts educational and social events that advance conservative principles.

About Men’s Club of Collier County Foundation, Inc. Men’s Club of Collier County Foundation, Inc. was formed to host events to raise funds for Scholarships and Veteran Services. Donations are tax deductible. The Men’s Club Foundation donated more than $25,000 for scholarships and veteran services in 2025.

December 2025 Closing Message – What A Great Year!

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President, The Right Men’s Club

As 2025 draws to a close, I look back with genuine pride on what we’ve accomplished together. This has been an outstanding year for our club.

We welcomed an impressive wave of new members who have already brought fresh energy and ideas to our gatherings. Our speaker series was nothing short of exceptional—thought-provoking, inspiring, and packed with insights that challenged and motivated us all. Most importantly, our fundraising efforts reached new heights, enabling us to award more scholarships than ever before and to expand our support for the veterans who have sacrificed so much for our nation.

None of this would have been possible without your steadfast commitment and generosity. Thank you.

Looking ahead to 2026, the best is yet to come—if we continue standing together. Your renewed membership is the foundation that allows us to bring in top-tier speakers, host meaningful events, and sustain our vital community outreach.

Here’s a preview of what’s in store:

  • A powerhouse speaker lineup featuring bold voices on the issues that matter most to us
  • Candidate forums spotlighting the key competitive races that will shape our future
  • Special programming focused on military excellence and patriotism as we join the nation in celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary

Let’s make 2026 another banner year for The Right Men’s Club. Please renew your membership today and invite a like-minded friend to join us. Together, we’ll keep building a stronger, more vibrant community rooted in principle, service, and fellowship.

Wishing you and your families a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

In camaraderie,

Russell Tuff

President

The Right Men’s Club

Member Michael Ricci Receives Veteran Commendation

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Left to Right: Army and Marine Corps Colonel Martin B. Spann, Marine Corps Master Sergeant Gerald Van Hecke, Air Force Airman 2nd Class Michael Victor Ricci Jr. and Army Specialist Jairo Restrepo

Dean of the Florida Delegation and member of the Defense Subcommittee on House Appropriations, presented the Congressional Veteran Commendation s to the following local veterans in Collier County for their distinguished service to our country: Army and Marine Corps Colonel Martin B. Spann, Marine Corps Master Sergeant Gerald Van Hecke, Army Specialist Jairo Restrepo, and Air Force Airman 2 Class Michael Victor Ricci Jr.

The Congressional Veteran Commendation is a nominations-based program designed to recognize the wartime sacrifices and peacetime community involvement of veterans residing in Florida’s 26th Congressional District. Each one of these veterans will be interviewed, and their wartime collection will be added to the Veterans History Project, sponsored by the Library of Congress.

Feature photo above shows Michael Ricci as Post Commander of VFW Post 7721 (behind the podium) and leading the procession is Right Men’s Club member Captain Jack Fulmer.

August Presidents Message – Education Highlights

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President, The Right Men’s Club

I am delighted to reflect on the success of our August meeting, where we were honored to hear from our guest speaker, Erika Donalds. She provided insightful updates on educational developments under the Trump Administration and recent legislative and executive actions in the State of Florida. Her presentation highlighted a promising future for education, inspiring optimism for our community and beyond.

We also had the privilege of hearing from four of our scholarship recipients, who are excelling in their college journeys. Their achievements reflect the impact of our commitment to education, as we proudly awarded $22,000 in scholarships this year, including $2,000 annually to each of these talented students. Their words filled us with pride and reaffirmed our dedication to supporting the next generation.

Our ongoing efforts to fund scholarships and veteran services are made possible through the success of our annual Salute to Veterans event. This year, we are thrilled to welcome Congressman Byron Donalds as our featured speaker. In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, we will also host special speakers in the VIP room for an exclusive meet-and-greet, promising an unforgettable evening of fellowship and patriotism. See Details Here

Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to our mission. I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events as we continue to make a meaningful impact in Collier County.

Left to Right: Bridi Paparus, Shahz Rahmonov, Erika Donalds, Jade Izurieta, and Mary Clair McCabe.