May Musings
Gary Israel
Did you know that Estero has a professional baseball team? For those of you who are longtime readers of Estero Life Magazine, you may remember the stories we have done in the past on the Louisville Slugger Warriors National Amputee Baseball Team. Estero is
“homebase” for the team as its General Manager, David Van Sleet, is an Estero resident. I have seen them play against the FGCU baseball team and against other organized teams. They are amazing to watch! Their skills put them on the team, but their passion keeps them there.
Our cover story this month shares the background on “Curveballs,” a documentary that highlights the heart of Estero’s national amputee baseball team. The film will debut this month on the 14th and 17th at the Fort Myers Film Festival at the Sydney & Berne Davis Art Center. We are sure that baseball fans — and anyone who loves a good story — will enjoy this inspiring film about the world’s first competitive baseball team made up of amputees. Hope to see you there!
Here’s another good story of growing local talent. The Art Council of Southwest Florida is celebrating its 60th anniversary. The council includes nearly 6,000 talented artists in our five-county area who work in many styles and mediums. One of the best places to see their art displayed is the COCO Art Gallery at Coconut Point Mall. Make it a point to stop by and enjoy next time you’re shopping. Perhaps you will find that perfect art piece to compliment your décor!
Our dining feature this month showcases another new dining option here in the Village of Estero, Fresh Catch Inland at Coconut Point. This is an extension of the Fort Myers Beach location of Fresh Catch Bistro, which was forced to relocate after Hurricane Ian. The new Estero location is a “fresh” take on their brand with many popular Fresh Catch dishes, along with some new items that can’t be found at the beach bistro. We are sure that some of our favorites will quickly become yours!
This month, there are two special “happenings” we’d like to highlight for your interest. For music fans, the Gulfshore Opera is presenting its “Journey Through the Americas” Tour on Saturday, May 15, held at St Leo’s Auditorium in Bonita Springs. And for the golfers out there, the Rotary Club of Estero is hosting its annual 2025 Golf Fundraiser, on Saturday, May 24, at Spring Run Golf Club, benefitting many community charitable organizations.
Also, don’t forget that Memorial Day is on May 26. We encourage you to pause and reflect on the sacrifices that so many men and women have made on our behalf. Prayers, as well, for their families.
And finally, we want to wish every mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, stepmother and “mother” figure a wonderful 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 time, remember to…
Enjoy the Good Life, Estero Life!!
Gary
Gary Israel, President & Publisher
Estero Life Magazine