More Than Fireworks Exploding in July in the Village of Estero
For nearly 11 years, Estero Life Magazine has been driven by the goal to foster a sense of community for Estero by promoting the people, places, events, businesses, activities and opportunities that abound. The Village of Estero is now exploding beyond imagination, making that mission all the more critical as we welcome new neighbors, businesses and opportunities.
We are excited to invite each of you, along with all your friends in the Estero area, to become “Estero Insiders.” We want to include all of the communities within and around our beautiful Village, and we are humbled by the overwhelming support we have received from the Village of Estero, Estero Council of Community Leaders, Estero Chamber of Commerce and Estero Forever Foundation, along with many of the communities within the Village as well as other local organizations. For complete details, please refer back to page 2.
The Village of Estero is evolving in so many exciting ways. To appreciate just how “hot” Estero’s real estate market is, check out our feature story on page 14. We are developing our parks system to accommodate growth as we welcome more full-time residents, working professionals and families who are moving into our area. Estero is truly becoming THE place to be!
This month’s Village Connection invites Estero citizens to participate in determining which capital improvement projects the Village should undertake in the coming year (see page 17). You’ll also get a sneak preview of some of the projects under consideration for the next five years.
New restaurants are opening in Estero, too, including three opened during the pandemic (Amfora, T42 and El Gaucho Inca). And Estero now has nationally recognized singers: “American Idol” finalist Casey Bishop and Ben Allen of “The Voice,” who is opening his own restaurant and music venue in East Naples.
Our dining feature this month features another new restaurant which opened during the pandemic in neighboring Bonita Springs. The Seaside Bar and Grill literally opened one day before the governor closed businesses due to the Covid pandemic! They creatively survived and are offering exceptional dining and something special each night. Check out “our favorites” from this neighborly hot spot and their creative cuisine on page 28.
Estero also produces world class athletes — not just through FGCU Athletics but also high school athletes involved local clubs like the Gulf Coast Swim Team. See this month’s cover story on page 8 to read about the Estero family who started this dedicated team and continues to train top swimmers.
In other sports news, Estero will host some of North America’s leading ice hockey prospects this month at Hertz Arena for the All-Ivy Showcase. See the “Happenings” on page 12.
Estero is also home to several nonprofit organizations with local impact, as well as global reach. GPS Life Journey, led by Estero pastor Nolen Rollins, has inspired many people to discover and follow God’s purpose for their lives. Estero Life contributing writer Craig Handel recently went through the GPS training, enhancing his work as a journalist. He brings us the story of Sally and Lowell Senitz, founders of Estero-based nonprofit Wings of Shelter (page 20).
And finally, all of us at Estero Life Magazine and our production team want to wish each of you a safe and happy Fourth of July. May your patriotism never waver as we send God Speed to our Troops and pray for God to bless America!
So, until next month, don’t forget to…Enjoy the Good Life: Estero Life!!!
Gary Israel, President & Publisher
Estero Life Magazine