The LoCastro Report
Fifth Edition
October 30, 2019
Greetings! 

It’s been another exciting week for the campaign. We’ve welcomed a new team member – AnnMarie Shimer has joined our staff as Campaign Media Coordinator. We are excited to have her on board!

Honored to emcee " Party With A Purpose " at the Naples Hilton for the third year in a row! The event this year benefited Wounded Warriors of Collier County ...and brought in record contributions for this worthy organization. Hosts Barbara & Daniel Melvin are true community leaders and we were honored to have Dale Mullen (WW Founder & President), Mayor Bill Barnett, and Gold Star Mom Kim Hayes in attendance. Thanks to our event Chairs and everyone who attended and contributed to make it a record-setting event!!

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Friday began with an inspiring groundbreaking for Lulu’s Kitchen, a new catering location by St. Matthew’s House. My friend and St. Matthew’s House CEO, Vann Ellison , and his team are doing great things in our community for those in need. They maximize every dollar invested in their organization to help a multitude of Collier County citizens. 

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Friday evening I attended the Marco Island City Council meeting. Many issues were addressed in the meeting, ranging from sign ordinances to beach code enforcement to water quality testing. A presentation by Marco Island City Manager, Mike McNees , about the Federal, State, County, and City involvement in these issues reminded us all why it’s so important to have experienced and proven leadership in our local government seats.  

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The weekend began with training with my Hispanic Outreach Team. We are excited to cover a large area in an effort to “get out the vote” and invite people to an amazing event for Hispanic voters to exchange information and discuss our shared values. Thanks to Edna Merced & Matt Benito for joining the LoCastro Campaign Team!

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The 5 th Annual Bow Wow Brunch for the Humane Society Naples was on Sunday. I had an excellent time with friends and campaign supporters and also an informative discussion with organization leaders…thanks for all you do!

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We started this week with a tour of the YMCA of South Collier on Marco Island . This place is not your YMCA of old! The campus is beautiful with tons of recent updates including renovations, new equipment, and increased space for programing. Their staff and volunteers are amazing, but they can use more volunteers as they grow! 

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Yesterday morning I attended the Collier County Strategic Mental Wellness Plan workshop addressing local services for those with mental illness, substance abuse, suicide ideation, and veterans in need. These challenges are substantial in our community, much larger than people would think. I’m glad leaders (David Lawrence Center, NCH, Wounded Warriors of Collier County, Sheriff's Office, St. Matthews House, NAMI, and others) are coming together to address these issues and put a plan of action in place. As a veteran and fellow citizen, I’m proud to be assisting with this initiative.
I hope you'll join us on the campaign to keep Collier County moving forward! You can make an investment quickly and safely online by visiting our website. 
Please don't hesitate to be in touch with me. Your input and feedback are critical. Thanks so much for your friendship and support! I'm available anytime for coffee, breakfast, lunch, dinner, happy hour, speaking engagements, meetings, etc... contact me directly (239) 777-2452 or Rick@RickLoCastro.com . I'm available for YOU! 
 
Stay tuned for BIG news coming in November & December for townhall meetings, receptions, fundraisers hosted by campaign supporters, and other events throughout District 1!

Rick

P.S. Remember, you can help by forwarding this email to a friend. Our most important resource are people who care about our community, want to see strong experienced leadership in these important government positions, and who want to make a difference! Please spread the word.


Paid by Rick LoCastro, Republican, for Collier County Commissioner