Building Bridges & Creating Harmony

In this issue, we introduce you to a group of local women who are reshaping what success looks like as they bridge the needs of their families with building their own businesses. What unites them is the intention to create a life where motherhood and careers can coexist in harmony. Although their paths each took a different direction, Estero’s ‘mom-treprenuers’ are venturing out with gusto as entrepreneurship meets motherhood.

A world in harmony is what Rotary International is all about. This global network includes more than 1.2 million neighbors, friends and community leaders who volunteer their skills and resources to solve issue and address community needs. For more than 120 years, Rotary has bridged cultures and connected continents. As a longtime Rotarian, I am proud to say we champion peace, fight illiteracy and poverty, help people get access to clean water and sanitation, and fight disease!

Locally, the Rotary Club of Estero is turning 25 years old this year. Inspired by the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self” and following the guiding principles of the Rotary Four-Way Test — truth, fairness, goodwill and benefit to all — the Rotary Club of Estero has been supporting dozens of local organizations and nonprofits even before the incorporation of the Village.

I want to personally invite you to read about our local club’s goals and, perhaps, you might find this an organized way to give back to our community. Shoot me a message if you want to learn more!

In this month’s Village Connection, we bridge the gap between a manageable weather event and a community disaster. It’s all about being prepared! Our friends at the Village remind us that the 2026 Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30, and it’s time to start preparing. How, you ask? Find tips on receiving emergency alerts, preparing an emergency supply kit and more helpful suggestions, especially for those newer residents who might not have yet weathered a hurricane, but a good reminder for us all. You might want to keep this Village Connection page in a prominent place or take a picture of it on your phone to help you start preparing.

Our dining feature will take you on a gastronomic adventure at Bicyclette Cookshop, just west of U.S. 41 and Vanderbilt Beach Road in Naples. With its inviting atmosphere, imaginative cuisine and passionate team, this culinary gem isn’t just a place to eat — it’s a bridge to tasty town!

At the heart of it all is the award-winning Partner-Chef Kayla Pfeiffer, who brings a whimsical approach to many of the dishes. The menu is designed for exploration as small, sharable plates take center stage. Bicyclette Cookshop is the perfect place to gather a few friends and enjoy both camaraderie and deliciousness. Expect to be impressed by the surprising elements Chef Kayla harmonizes for a fusion of flavor!

In America’s 250^th anniversary year, please remember that Memorial Day is Monday, May 25. We encourage you to pause along the bridge of reflection to appreciate the sacrifices that so many men and women have made on our behalf — 250 years’ worth! — and offer our prayers for their families.

And finally, we want to wish every mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, stepmother or mother figure a wonderful and harmonious Mother’s Day, with all of the blessings and happiness that you so richly deserve. And we make prayerful remembrance of the many mothers who are no longer with us. All mothers are special!

 

Until next month, remember to…

Enjoy the Good Life: Estero Life!!!

Gary

Gary Israel, President & Publisher

Estero Life Magazine