Journey with Us!

From Vietnam to Washington to Persia — and back to Southwest Florida!

 

In a couple of weeks, Southwest Florida will once again respond to the rousing exclamation, “It’s Hockey Night In Estero!” as the Florida Everblades open up their 28th season at Hertz Arena. Leading the team is Head Coach and General Manager Brad Ralph, celebrating his 10th season as the Blades strive to capture their fifth Kelly Cup. This month’s cover story reveals coach Ralph’s many successes in hockey. We invite you to relish in his “decade of success” and the storied history of our own Florida Everblades — without a doubt the best hockey in the ECHL!

If you are a Vietnam veteran or if you know one living here in Southwest Florida, we invite you to attend a special patriotic concert presented by the Bonita Springs Concert Band on Nov. 2 at Riverside Park in Bonita Springs. We promise you will enjoy this stirring outdoor concert. See our feature story on page 16 for details on how to get a copy of the poem “The Wall,” penned by Estero resident and decorated Veteran Robert Chapin, whose military service took him through the jungles of Vietnam. The emotional discovery of his childhood best friend’s name on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC, led Robert to pen a moving poem that still speaks to the hearts of Vietnam Veterans and their families and friends today.

Also mark your calendars for the Village of Estero’s annual Veterans Day celebration taking place on Saturday, Nov. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Estero Community Park. Highlights include musical performances by Mark Sanders, the New Horizons Children’s Choir and the Estero High School Band. And, there will be free hot dogs,

chips and water. Complete program details are in this month’s Village Connection. There’s something for everyone.

From patriotism and honoring our nation’s heroes, we head abroad to a culinary adventure to the Persian Gulf through this month’s dining review of Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro on Fifth Avenue in Naples. Wow, what an exceptional blend of tastes, textures, fresh herbs, delicate spices and aromas! Fall is the best time to beat the crowds and enjoy this unique dining experience.

Celebrate all of life’s journeys with your neighbors as you gather at upcoming community events and experience the best ice hockey action, right here in Estero!

 

Until next month, remember to…

Enjoy the Good Life: Estero Life!!!

Gary

Gary Israel, President & Publisher

Estero Life Magazine