Happy Birthday, Estero!

My how time flies! It seems like only yesterday that the Village of Estero incorporated, and we elected our very first Village Council. For those of us living here at the time, it was a very proud moment. For those who have settled into Estero since that time, you will be surprised to learn how much has been accomplished in such a short time. Our Village Connection (pg. 17) this month recaps major achievements of the past seven years. How many of them do you remember?

Join the celebration — Estero’s 7th birthday party is March 5 at Estero Park from 11 am to 2 pm. Live entertainment by Estero’s own Billy Dean & Dawn (Stoneybrook residents), food trucks and beverages, a car show and activities for the kids will also be available. Bring a chair and a friend and come out to celebrate!

Our cover story this month introduces the first-ever R.A.D (Really Awesome Drinks) tasting room located in Miromar Outlets with its origins from the Rick family orchards in Michigan. We invite you to read the back story of this fruity, fizzy beverage and how it came to debut in Estero.

One of Estero’s best kept secrets is NOT a secret any longer — we’ve got talent! Ever since Blake Shelton mispronounced Estero (as “Sterile”) on “The Voice” a couple of years ago while interviewing Estero singer Ben Allen, the local talent pool has just kept growing. Shortly after Allen reaching the top 9, Estero teen Casey Bishop finished in the top 4 on “American Idol.”  And, as Estero was just coming down from this excitement, Ryleigh Plank, also from Southwest Florida, wowed the judges again on “The Voice”! This is not the end of the emerging musical talent from our area. Enjoy learning about the newest talent on the rise from Estero, Kristen Noble, who is already recording with major musicians in Nashville and gaining avid followers on Spotify. Find out how a Lee County school is contributing to Estero’s recognition as a hotbed of talent!

Like our rising musical talent, our dining scene in Southwest Florida also continues to elevate. Our dining review this month features the newest Cameron Mitchell concept, Del Mar, on 5th Avenue in Naples. This unique Mediterranean masterpiece is a delight, not only to guest’s tastebuds, but to their total sensory experience. Sights, sounds and aromas dominate this two-story palace. Their talented staff aims to offer guests the excitement of a “first date.” We invite you to read about the things that made our first date experience so memorable.

As always, don’t forget to check out our reader favorites – Best Bets, Scene on Site and Happenings — highlighting local events of interest including the Estero Forever Gala (March 31), Estero Fest (April 2) and the Interfaith Charities “Drive Out Hunger” dinner and auction (April 7).

 

Until next time, don’t forget to…

Enjoy the Good Life: Estero Life!!

Gary

Gary Israel, President & Publisher 

Estero Life Magazine