The passing of MCA Founder Steve Brazina

By Jeff Margolis

It is with profound and deep sadness that we announce the passing of Steve Brazina, founder and first president of the Men’s Cultural Alliance of Greater Naples (MCA). Steve, along with a group of 30 original members, began to assemble and grow the preeminent men’s organization in Collier County. He was the driving force in researching and engaging speakers for the popular monthly luncheon programs. He also was the creative spirit behind the greatly popular documentary film series.

Steve was the recipient of the fi rst Dick Janger Award for his dedication and drive in the establishment of MCA. Thanks to him and the other charter members, MCA grew to a pre-pandemic membership of over 750. In addition to his many hats at MCA, Steve served as co-chair of the Israel Advocacy Committee, program chair at the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center and program chair for the Movies that Matter series. May his memory be for a blessing.

New officers

MCA is pleased to announce its new slate of elected officers for the coming season: President – Michael Sobol

Secretary – Burt Blomquist

Treasurer – Spencer Forman

Program Chair – Les Nizin

Membership Chair – Ira Kushner

Communications/Technology Chair – Larry Israelite

Congratulations to the new Board. We wish them much success as we head into the new season.

Upcoming events

MCA’s Golf Outing will take place on Wednesday, May 4, 9 a.m. at Pelican Sound Golf Course (4569 Pelican Sound Blvd.). The cost is $38 per player. Foursomes will be created based on handicap. For those interested, we will be dining afterwards at the club

Join world traveler and raconteur Jim Sernovitz as his monthly travelogue series takes us on a journey to southern India on Tuesday, May 10 at 2:30 p.m. via Zoom. Many Americans have been to northern India, but few go to the south. Come with us as we visit a very different part of the world that is home to millions. Registration can be made via the Wild Apricot portal. Those of you who have signed up for previous lectures need not register again.

The MCA Book Discussion group will hold its monthly get-together via Zoom on Thursday, May 12 at 2:30 p.m. This month’s selection is “The Children Act” by Ian McEwen, one of Britain’s top novelists. The author tells the story of a principled family court judge who wrestles with difficult decisions even as her own marriage is under threat. For more information, contact group leader Stan Farb at stan4mignon@earthklink.com.

For the MCA outdoor activities that will continue through the spring and summer, please check your weekly e-blast and/or with your activity coordinators for schedules and details.

Many thanks to outgoing president Les Nizin, who has served as President of the MCA for the past six years, and to the members of the Board of Directors for their untiring efforts in leading the MCA during the difficult months of the pandemic.

To those members leaving us for the summer, safe travels and we look forward to seeing you when you return in the fall.