Bonita Springs Utilities, Inc., is proceeding with a floating solar array at its East Water Reclamation Facility, after board approval of the project.
This includes the construction of a 1.5-megawatt “alternating current floating photovoltaic system” that will be installed on an existing pond near the utility’s EWRF and is expected to offset approximately 60% of the facility’s energy demand from the electric grid.
“This project represents a thoughtful investment in our utility’s future,” said Richard Garner, president of the BSU Board of Directors. “We have evaluated solar opportunities for many years, and the timing is right to move forward in a financially responsible and operationally sound way. This initiative helps stabilize energy costs, strengthens our infrastructure and reflects our commitment to responsible stewardship on behalf of our members.”
The floating solar system will operate under a net metering agreement with Florida Power & Light. At peak performance, the system is expected to supply up to two-thirds of the facility’s energy needs.
“Energy is one of our biggest operating costs at the EWRF, and this project will help us offset a significant portion of that demand with on-site power generation,” said Andy Koebel, executive director of BSU. “It’s a practical investment that helps manage costs over the long-term, strengthens our system and puts us in a better position moving forward.”
Construction of system components is already underway offsite. Onsite installation is anticipated to be completed this fall, with the system expected to be fully operational by the end of the year. BSU expects to begin realizing energy and cost benefits in 2027.
Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death among Florida children ages one to four.
The YMCA of Southwest Florida offers water safety and swim programs for children of all ages throughout the region, including its core “Safety Around Water” course, teaching essential skills, and swim lessons” to build confidence and proficiency. 
The Y also provides lifeguard training for certification and a competitive youth swim team.
To benefit the Y’s programs, Suncoast Custom Pools will host its second annual Suncoast Signature Cup charity golf tournament on Friday, May 15, at the Quarry Golf Club, 8950 Weathered Stone Dr. in North Naples. The event brings together Southwest Florida’s top professionals, partners and community champions. More than 100 golfers and volunteers participated in last year’s event, raising $100,000, which funded swim lessons for more than 250 children.
“We anticipate that this year’s golf tournament will build upon the success we had in our inaugural year in helping the YMCA of Southwest Florida provide these vital water safety education and swim programs in our community,” said Josh McKenna, Owner and CEO of Suncoast Custom Pools. “We are proud to help prevent further youth drownings through this annual fundraising event and our Pools with A Purpose partnership in which we donate a package of swim lessons to a child in need for every new pool we build.”
The Suncoast Custom Pools Signature Cup charity event will feature an 18-hole scramble.
For information, visit sccpools.com/suncoast-signature-cup.
Baker Senior Center of Naples will present “Caring for the Caregiver: Resources, Support and Strategy” on Thursday, April 23 for those caring for loved ones with neurological and mental health conditions.
This event brings together healthcare professionals, research advocates and community members to provide education, support and access to valuable resources.
Attendees will learn about local services, caregiver support tools and clinical research opportunities that help advance new treatments while expanding care options for loved ones.
The featured speaker is Dr. William Justiz, a board-certified neurologist with a focus on Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and cognitive decline. Dr. Justiz earned his Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science from Northwestern University and his medical degree from the University of Miami.
The community event is scheduled from 12 p.m. until 1 p.m. at Baker Senior Center Naples, 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane. The cost is $10 per person.
Scholarships are available to assist with the fee. Seats are limited and registration is required. For more information or reservations, contact Kelley Findlay at 239-325-4444.
The Collier Children’s Advocacy Center brought together community members for a focused discussion on the importance of trauma-informed response during its “From Surviving to Saving Lives” event in March at Gulfshore Playhouse.
Held in partnership with the Naples Children’s Foundation, the program “reinforced how coordinated, trauma-informed care supports a child’s path to recovery.”
Tonier Cain, a childhood abuse survivor and nationally recognized advocate, shared her journey and the role trauma-informed care played in her healing.
Lt. Wade Williams of the Collier County Sheriff’s Office provided insight into a local case involving suspected child abuse, illustrating how trauma-informed practices can strengthen investigations.
“Our goal to provide trauma-informed care to children across Collier County depends on a community that is informed and engaged,” said Jackie Stephens, CEO of Collier CAC. “These conversations give the community insight into how they can help children in their neighborhoods receive the support they need during difficult times.”
The event also included recognition of Collier CAC’s “Seeds of Strength” recipients, honoring individuals whose support has advanced the organization’s mission. Honorees included board member Brad Boaz, Julie Van Tongeren of the Collier Community Foundation, Lise Eichenlaub, daughter of longtime supporter Daphne Pfaff and Sarah Zaiser-Kelly of the Naples Children Foundation.
More: Now You Know: Pole Vault in the Plaza; Fire Station 31 ceremony
And: Now You Know: New projects for Estero; Wonder Gardens CEO to retire
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