12-03-2025
Now You Know: Valencia Bonita Lunch Bunch supports APS, more on Estero Fest, BSU, 100 Club
In January, Dusti Beaubien, president and founder of the Alliance for Period Supplies of Southwest Florida, spoke to the Valencia Bonita Lunch Bunch about period poverty and its impact on women and girls in Southwest Florida.
Attendees learned that for one in four women and girls in the community, affording period products is a challenge. Despite being essential, these items are not covered by federal assistance programs.
'We were grateful for the opportunity to speak at the Valencia Bonita Lunch Bunch event. A key part of our mission is to educate the public about this often-overlooked health crisis,' said Beaubien.
'Once the women learned about this issue, they were eager to help. We are truly touched by their generosity and willingness to support those in need.'
The Valencia Bonita Lunch Bunch donated $1,010 to APS of SWFL, a contribution that will provide 391 women and girls with safe, hygienic, and worry-free periods next month.
To learn more about the Alliance for Period Supplies of SWFL and how you can help end period poverty in Southwest Florida, visit
Estero Fest 2025 is from 1-8 p.m., Saturday, March 15. There will be bands, food trucks, a beer and wine garden, a Kids Zone, a business expo, Estero Fire Rescue and Lee County Sherriff's Office displays and Estero councilmembers celebrating the Village's 10th anniversary.
The bands start playing at 1 p.m., led off by the Swamp Blues Band, followed by the Sudamerica Latin Groove Band, Incorrigibles Band and the Ben Allen Band starting at 5 p.m.
Entertainment for children includes a bounce house, costumed characters offering face painting, a Kids Corner providing arts and crafts for kids, and a visit by Way Too Tall Tory.
This free event will be held at the Estero Community Park, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd. Bring lawn chairs or blankets.
The event is hosted by the Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce.
Bonita Springs Utilities Inc. hosted its biannual Member Appreciation Day in late February. Members toured the water plant and the customer service center, explored exhibits, observed field staff demonstrations and equipment and learned about BSU's operations.
'It was great welcoming members to our customer service center and giving them a behind-the-scenes look at what we do every day,' said Andy Koebel, BSU executive director. 'This is one of BSU's favorite events because it is fun for the whole family. In addition to thanking our members, Member Appreciation Day gives us the opportunity to share how we provide essential services to our community.'
Members toured the utility's Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant.
BSU currently produces and delivers an average of over 10 million gallons of drinking water to members every day through two water treatment processes: lime softening and reverse osmosis.
Bonita Springs Utilities Inc. is a not-for-profit water and wastewater utility cooperative founded by local citizens in 1970.
The Collier County 100 Club recently announced its annual dinner, scheduled for March 19, at the Hilton Naples, 5111 Tamiami Tr., N., Naples. The evening will unite members, supporters and community leaders who share a dedication to supporting first responders and their families.
The event starts with a cocktail hour at 6 p.m., followed by dinner and the official program at 7.
Individual tickets are $100 and can be purchased online or by check. Make checks payable to the Collier County 100 Club and mail them to 3200 Bailey Lane, #199, Naples, Florida.
This year's keynote speaker is General Timothy M. Ray, the former Commander of Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) and Air Forces Strategic-Air, U.S. Strategic Command.
'We are incredibly honored to welcome Gen. Timothy M. Ray as this year's keynote speaker,' said Pat O'Connor, Collier County 100 Club Board President. 'His extensive service and leadership in the U.S. Air Force reflect the core values of duty, honor, and commitment – principles that align with the Collier County 100 Club mission to support those who protect and serve our communities.'
For sponsorship details or questions, contact Emily at emily@ or call 239-262-0015.
More: Now You Know: Estero Fest slated; forum on building resilience
And: Now You Know: Volunteers clear the beach; EDGE designs interiors for The Beach Bar
This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Now You Know: Valencia Bonita Lunch Bunch supports APS
