Happy New Year 2025!

It’s hard to believe, but the Village of Estero is beginning its second decade as a municipality of the state of Florida! If you were part of our area back on December 31, 2014, you just have to be amazed at the growth and positive changes we have witnessed over the last 10 years. Yes, there are always challenges that come with growth, but the benefits almost always outweigh the drawbacks. I lived in southern California for 13 years from 1980-1993. Floridians know nothing about traffic! I always tell those who complain about traffic to spend two or three weeks in California, and when they return to Florida, they won’t even notice the traffic.

Before we look ahead, let me point out this month’s Village Connection, which gives us a “year in review” perspective. This reminder of our community’s positive developments will help us keep a cheerful outlook as we face the new challenges that the next phase of growth will surely bring. We can all take pride in the wise management of the Village of Estero.

In keeping with our tradition, our January cover story delivers the economic outlook for our area as Estero continues to become “The Destination.” Enjoy learning about the many traits and trends that are causing phenomenal growth in the Village and what we can expect this new year.

In addition to intense commercial and residential growth in the area, opportunities for residents to engage are also growing. For this reason we have provided three “happenings” over the next several months to consider: Pedal for a Purpose in January at Lee Health Coconut Point; Breaking Par for Education, presented by Engage Estero, at The Club at Grandezza in February; and Estero Fest 2025, presented by the Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce, at the Estero Community Park in March. Also mark your calendars for the Bonita Springs Concert Band performance at Riverside Park in January and the Don Eslick Persons of the Year presentation, honoring Joe and Joni Pavich, at The Vines of Estero in late February. We encourage everyone to

make an effort to come together to celebrate the many positive events happening in the Village of Estero.

Our dining review this month showcases La Fontanella, located just a short drive into Bonita Springs at Pelican Landing. This neighborhood Italian stalwart has been under new ownership since December 2022, and they have creatively added to an already delicious and popular menu. Linguini Pescatore, Chilean Sea Bass, Vitello Osso Bucco and much, much more await! It’s casual elegance at its finest. Mangia bene!

As I count my blessings from this past year before turning the page to 2025, one of the highlights of the year was in September when my name was drawn by the Estero Historical Society in their raffle for a two-year lease on a Ford Bronco from Sam Galloway Ford! The timing was perfect, and I can’t thank the many who were involved enough for this opportunity.

I would also like to welcome our new advertisers who gave us our most significant growth in partnerships since our initial launch in 2010: Design Envy Interiors, Estero Optics, K-9 Cottage Academy, El Gaucho Trattoria, La Fontanella and Royal Scoop Estero. They are great additions to our longstanding advertising partners.

 

Until next time, remember to…

                                    Enjoy the Good Life, Estero Life!!

 

Gary

Gary Israel, President & Publisher

Estero Life Magazine