South County Regional Library Ribbon Cutting
2026-01-07 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero, Fl 33928
a Community Celebration to include live steel drum music, balloon animals and face painting plus crafts, activities and fun giveaways from 10 a.m.-12 noon, Saturday, January 10.

Alive After Five! at Venture Visionary Partners
2026-01-08 17:30 - 19:00 | Venture Visionary Partners, 27400 Riverview Center Blvd, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Enjoy good eats, great conversation, and meet new peers at Alive After Five! at Venture Visionary Partner’s incredible meeting space on Thursday, January 8, 2026. From 5:30 – 7:00 pm enjoy complimentary appetizers from Miller’s Ale House! Take in the unique atmosphere and mingle with your colleagues in the greater Estero business community. You might even win one of our gift card or cash giveaways!
Venture Visionary Partners is conveniently located at 27400 Riverview Center Blvd., in Bonita Springs just off US 41. The space is a hidden gem and is available for meetings, retreats and more. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to build relationships, share ideas, and meet local business leaders in a fun, casual setting. Tickets are $20 for Members and just $30 for Non-Members. Get yours online at https://esterochamber.org.

Plant This Not That! (Invasive Plant Awareness)
2026-01-10 10:00 - 17:00 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero
Discover the 9 Principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™!
Offered through the University of Florida IFAS Extension, the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) program helps homeowners create vibrant, sustainable landscapes that protect Florida’s unique natural resources. This introduction to the 9 guiding principles provides simple, science-based steps for conserving water, reducing pollution, supporting wildlife, and enjoying a beautiful yard that thrives in Florida’s climate. Whether you’re looking to cut down on maintenance, save money on irrigation, or make your landscape eco-friendlier, the FFL principles offer practical solutions that benefit both your property and the environment.
Master Gardener Volunteers are presenting these 9 principles throughout Lee County from October 2025 to March 2026. Find out when they are in your neighborhood by visiting Lee County Extension Eventbrite page (https://www.LeeCountyExtension.eventbrite.com) or following us on Facebook (UF IFAS – Ext Lee County) and Instagram (lee_ufifas).
Learn how small changes in your landscape can make a big impact for you and Florida’s future!

Planning, Zoning & Design Board Meeting
2026-01-13 16:30 - 19:30 | Village of Estero, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
The Village of Estero Planning, Zoning and Design Board will discuss several important matters at its next meeting on Tuesday, January 13.
These meetings are an opportunity for residents to learn more about growth, development, and zoning changes within Estero and to voice questions, concerns, and comments on these topics.
Items for discussion on the agenda include:

Waypoint Apartments, a proposed redevelopment of the closed Coconut Point Regal Theater into a 365-unit apartment building with a parking garage.
A request from Estero Fire to expand its CorkScrew Road headquarters into a 4.6-acre parcel next to its existing 5-acre space to allow for a 10,000-square-foot storage building and parking.

Residents who wish to comment during the meeting should complete a Public Comment Card. E-comment forms are also available before meetings and must be returned by noon the day before the meeting.
The full agenda and supporting documents can be viewed here by clicking on “Planning Zoning and Design Board Meeting.”
Learn more here.

Village of Estero Council Meeting
2026-01-21 09:30 - 12:30 | Village of Estero, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
The Village of Estero Council will discuss several important matters at its next meeting on Wednesday, January 21.
These meetings are an opportunity for residents to learn more about growth, development, and zoning changes within Estero and to voice questions, concerns, and comments on these topics.
Among the items on the agenda:

An annual $97,500 contract with P & T Lawn & Tractor for swale and ditch cleaning.
A resolution of a lien against the Truist Bank branch in the Grand Oake Shoppes on Corkscrew Road. When the bank began operating it did not secure a use permit, leading to more than $300,000 in noncompliant fees that manifested as a lien against the bank. The bank received a use permit in December 2025; since, legal counsel for the bank and the Village have come to an agreement to reduce the lien to $3,000 as the bank is now in compliance.
Proposed amendments to the land development code to alleviate approved project locations from sitting dormant for long periods of time, which was receiving resident complaints. According to the Village’s report on this item, parcels can sit vacant for years, which “often create significant negative impacts upon the Village, to include cleared parcels being left open and unimproved which promotes illegal activities, growth of weeds, excessive and turbid stormwater runoff, and visual blight viewed from adjoining roads and developed properties. The changes would acknowledge these projects and financing can take a long time but put parameters in place so they do not stretch out.
The board will also hold 2 workshops to review in-progress development projects and the Village Planning and Zoning Board’s annual report.

Council members will also convene for workshops on property fraud, legislative updates, flood vulnerability assessment, and the Village’s eco-historic study.
Residents who wish to comment during the meeting should complete a Public Comment Card. E-comment forms are also available before meetings and must be returned by noon the day before the meeting.
The full agenda and supporting documents can be viewed here by clicking “Village Council Meeting.”

Food For Thought Luncheon: Dr. Ankush Gulati from the Kidney Institute of Florida
2026-01-21 11:30 - 13:00 | Embassy Suites Estero, 10450 Corkscrew Commons Dr, Estero, FL 33928
Join Us for the January Food for Thought Luncheon!
The Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce is proud to host Dr. Ankush Gulati from the Kidney Institute of Florida. Dr. Gulati will speak about Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and the importance of early testing and awareness.
Dr. Gulati is dual board-certified in Internal Medicine and Nephrology and has been practicing in Fort Myers for the past 17 years. He is passionate about innovative kidney care and focuses on slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease by advocating for early testing and proactive management.
In addition to his patient care, Dr. Gulati oversees a network of five clinic offices across Southwest Florida and manages four dialysis units, ensuring high-quality, coordinated care for patients throughout the region.
Wednesday, January 21
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Embassy Suites Estero
10450 Corkscrew Commons Dr, Estero, FL 33928
Enjoy a buffet lunch courtesy of the talented chefs at Embassy Suites, and connect with fellow business and community leaders in a relaxed setting.
Tickets:
$30 for Chamber members
$40 for non-members
Get your tickets here: https://business.esterochamber.org/events/

Grounding Spot Ribbon Cutting
2026-01-24 10:00 - 11:00 | 8002 Mediterranean Drive, Estero FL 33928
The Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce invites you to join us as we celebrate the Ribbon Cutting for Grounding Spot in Estro. The ceremony will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, January 24 at their location at 8002 Mediterranean Drive, Estero, FL.
Grounding Spot: Mental Fitness Club offers an innovative approach to total well-being — from meditation and yoga to mental fitness coaching and integrative therapies that help our community unwind, thrive, and live more balanced lives.
Visit https://esterochamber.org for more information

Bunco Fundraiser for Estero Historical Society
2026-01-24 18:00 - 19:30 | Villages at Country Creek 21180 Country Creek Drive Estero, FL
Have fun and raise funds for the Estero Historical Society at our Bunco Fundraiser on Saturday, Jan. 24th. The dice start rolling at 6:00 pm at the Villages at Country Creek Clubhouse, located at 21180 Country Creek Drive, Estero.
Bunco is easy to learn, fun to play, and a great way to meet new friends and support a good cause at the same time.
Prizes awarded for:

Most Buncos
Most Funko Buncos
Most Wins
Most Losses
Traveler Prize (held at the end of the game!)

Tickets are just $20 and can be purchased online at: https://esterohistoricalsociety.com/event/bunco-fundraiser/
The Estero Historical Society is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our unique greater Estero area, and depends on volunteers and donations for projects such as the relocation and restoration of the Alvarez/Smith Home. Find out more about us at www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com

Community & Membership Meeting
2026-01-29 10:00 - 11:30 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
20260129_Engage-Estero-Presentation

FGCU Entrepreneurial School and Gulfshore Opera Featured at Engage Estero Community Meeting January 29, 2026
Introduction
Following the Pledge of Allegiance and wishing everyone a Happy New Year, Engage Estero President Allan Bowditch joked to the crowd that, because of the relatively low attendance, many registered residents might have thought they were “better off staying in bed” rather than braving the cold. But for those who missed coffee and conversation, we have produced a YouTube Video of the meeting as well as this summary document.
While road construction and traffic safety are usually the hot-button topics in our village, this meeting took a different, refreshing turn. The focus shifted to the “soul” and the economic importance of new entrepreneurial start-ups in our community: cultural enrichment and economic innovation. Bowditch said that Estero needs to encourage new start-ups to develop their businesses locally, and we need more residents to support music and the arts to help establish a local Community Theater in Estero.
Bowditch quoted Harth-Bedoya, a Peruvian Orchestral conductor and now distinguished resident director of orchestras and professor at the Rice Shepherd School of Music, who recently said, “There’s a saying that you cannot touch music- but music can touch you! It can move emotions, spark your imagination, and awaken your sense of beauty; that’s the power of music.” Given its health benefits, we should also embrace the many local and international artists who are here on our doorstep more often.
The morning featured two powerhouse speakers who happen to be our neighbors here in Estero: Dr. Bill McDowell, Dean of the School of Entrepreneurship at FGCU, and Stephanie Pierce, the founder and General Director of Gulf Shore Opera.
The Business of Dreaming Big at FGCU
First up was Dr. Bill McDowell. If you think university entrepreneurship programs are just dusty theory classes tucked inside a business school, think again. McDowell, a happy Estero resident who moved here from Texas, made it clear that FGCU is doing something radically different.
FGCU is home to the Daveler and Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship. It is an independent school—not part of the College of Business or Engineering. In fact, it is one of only four independent schools of entrepreneurship in the entire nation.
“FGCU is your university,” McDowell reminded the room, emphasizing that the school is a major driver of the local economy. The numbers he shared were staggering. They have over 900 students majoring or minoring in entrepreneurship. To put that in perspective, most university programs have 10 to 50 students. FGCU has about 750 majors.
But what are these students actually doing? They aren’t just writing business plans; they are launching companies.
McDowell highlighted the school’s “Runway Program,” which provides funding to students across campus to start their businesses. “We actually fund them to start their businesses,” McDowell explained. In the first semester, students get between $250 and $500 to form their LLCs. Later, the school writes checks ranging from $500 to $20,000. This is non-dilutive equity, meaning the school takes zero ownership. They have given out over $1 million to student startups.
The results speak for themselves. While national research shows that only 10% to 30% of startups survive for 5 years, FGCU student- and veteran-founded startups boast a 70% success rate.
McDowell shared some local favorites you might recognize:

Cattyshack Cafe at Gulf Coast Town Center.

Jade Springs, a six-figure music business.
Bounceback Pickle, a company started by a student who recycles pickleballs and is now manufacturing new ones from the recycled material.

They are also staying on the cutting edge with new concentrations in blockchain, sustainability, and the “creator economy”. McDowell noted they even have a professor who helped start MTV and Nickelodeon, teaching media entrepreneurship.
“It’s not just cute ideas,” McDowell said, mentioning a graduate making up to $60,000 a month creating ASMR videos and another with two billion views on TikTok. These students are building the future of our local economy, right here in our backyard.
But enhanced support to encourage even more students to remain in our locality is very important, not least because it would provide economic benefits for the Village and reflect well on our community, illustrating its forward-looking perspective.
Bringing Grand Opera to the Village
Following the high energy of the startup world, the meeting shifted to high culture. Amy Jacimedi introduced Stephanie Pierce, a former international opera singer who performed at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center before founding Gulf Shore Opera (GO).
Pierce, who has lived in Estero for over a year, explained that GO is the region’s professional opera company. They moved their headquarters to Estero in 2021 because they realized the growth was happening “north of Naples.” Their HQ is right on Corkscrew Road—”right next to the Arby’s,” as Pierce helpfully pointed out.
GO’s mission is to make opera accessible and destigmatize the art form. They don’t just stay in one theater; they tour three counties, bringing world-class culture to us. “We bring in over 300 professional classical singers, musicians, and directors,” Pierce noted.
The company produces full-scale grand operas, the only production company in the area doing so at professional theaters like Barbara B. Mann and Artis-Naples. Pierce showed a clip from their recent sold-out production of Carmen, which featured a 40-piece orchestra and 65 chorus members, ages 8 to 80.
But they also do smaller, intimate events. Their upcoming chamber opera, a jazz-infused version of Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess, will tour from March 27 to April 1. They also host “Taste of Opera” events—elegant dinners with live performances at local country clubs.
Perhaps most touching was Pierce’s discussion of the Harmony Choir, a youth engagement initiative. One of their strongest chapters is right here in Estero at Three Oaks Academy. The program helps at-risk youth, including children with autism, by offering free music education. They recently started a program connecting these youths with seniors, who perform at facilities like the Brookdale Senior Center.
However, Pierce highlighted a significant gap in our community infrastructure. GO wants to bring productions like Porgy and Bess to Estero, but “there is no such venue in Estero yet,” she said. While they have a small studio next to Arby’s, they are actively looking for a collaborative performing arts venue where local organizations can share the stage.
Community Updates: Library, Cinema, and Veterans
Before closing, Allan Bowich provided several important comments for residents. He thanked those who had provided valuable donations to the organization. 2025 has also seen a considerable increase in the attendance at our Community Meetings as well as social media growth, and a recent expansion in those who receive our communications along East Corkscrew.
nBowditch reminded everyone of the opening of the Estero Library on Three Oaks following a $10 million renovation.
He discussed Engage Estero’s and the Shadow Wood Community’s strong objection to a proposed development at Coconut Point. The plan involved removing the cinema and replacing it with a five-story residential development and multi-story car park. Bowditch noted that the high density and appearance didn’t fit the “overall tenure” of Estero. Interestingly, Pierce chimed in, noting that she had tried to buy the building for an arts center three years ago but was told it wasn’t for sale.
Looking ahead, Bowditch announced the Don Eslick Person of the Year Gala on February 26th. This year’s honoree is Dr. Larry Antonucci, President of Lee Health, recognized for his work improving healthcare facilities in the village.
He also flagged a Public Forum on March 17th at FGCU titled “Shaping Estero’s Future,” and a meeting for veterans at the library to discuss a potential veterans’ recognition park.
The 2025 Annual Report will be released next week. It highlights a year of significant progress and growing responsibility in service to the Greater Estero community. The report outlines key achievements across transportation advocacy, development oversight, environmental protection, volunteer engagement, education, healthcare, and expanded community communications. It also shares our vision for the future and the resources needed to sustain and expand our impact. We hope you have an opportunity to read it and consider financially supporting our work in 2026.
How You Can Help
The recurring theme of the meeting was that a thriving community requires participation. Both speakers made it clear that they need us, the residents of Estero, to help them succeed.

Mentor the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs: FGCU’s School of Entrepreneurship has about 50 to 60 mentors, but they need about 150. You don’t need to be a business tycoon to help. As Dr. McDowell explained, they need people with life experience to offer support, operations advice, or strategic networking. Whether you can help with market research or just be a “mentor circle” voice for students, your time is valuable.

Action: If you are interested in mentoring, contact the Daveler and Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship: Contact Dr William McDowell -wmcdowell@fgcu.edu

Support the Arts and a New Venue: Gulf Shore Opera is looking for community leaders to join a “think tank” regarding a future performing arts center in Estero. As Pierce noted, they can’t grow their programs or bring shows to our village without a proper space. Contact Steffanie Pierce – steffanie@gulfshoreopera.org

Action: Sign the “Share the Dream” sheet or contact Gulf Shore Opera if you have ideas, a location, or want to be involved in the conversation about a local arts venue.

As Allan Bowditch concluded, “We’d love to have a theater here… but obviously we need to support what’s here already”.
Stay warm, Estero, and let’s get involved!

Early Settlers & Livelihoods: Conversation at the Cottage
2026-01-31 13:30 - 14:30 | Estero Historical Society
Join the Estero Historical Society for an informative and cozy Conversation at the Cottage: Early Settlers & Livelihoods on Saturday, Jan. 31 at 1:30 pm.

Learn about our local history while surrounded by our own historic cottage, schoolhouse and exhibits. The Cottage is located within the Estero Park and Recreation Center, at 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero, Florida 33928.

Tickets are free for members, and just $15 for non-members. Space is limited, so reservations are required.

The Estero Historical Society is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our unique greater Estero area, and depends on volunteers and donations for projects such as the relocation and restoration of the Alvarez/Smith Home. Find out more about us at www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com

Music of Four Centuries with Peter Fletcher
2026-02-02 14:00 - 15:00 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
This program features audience favorites by Bach, Tárrega, Sor, and Albéniz, including highlights such as Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, Capricho Arabe, Simple Gifts, and the dramatic Usher–Valse by Nikita Koshkin.

A Night of Hope to benefit the Eden House
2026-02-02 18:00 - 20:00 | Grey Oaks Country Club
Chris Anthony
canthony@firstnaples.org
02/02/2026 6PM
Grey Oaks County Club
250
https://www.edenhouse.org/event/gala/
Eden House
https://www.edenhouse.org/

Council Meeting
2026-02-04 09:30 - 17:00, 2026-02-18 08:00 - 17:00 | Village of Estero, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
Village meetings are held at the Village Hall at 9401 Corkscrew Palms Blvd in Chambers.
Residents who wish to comment during the meeting should complete a Public Comment Card. E-comment forms are also available before meetings and must be returned by noon the day before the meeting.
The full agendas and supporting documents can be viewed approximately one week prior to each meeting at https://estero-fl.gov/meetings.

Blood Pressure Control Series
2026-02-05 14:00 - 15:00 | Online
This three-part series provides education on the health risks of high blood pressure, monitoring blood pressure, understanding medications and choices to live a healthier life.

AI and the Future of Creativity: Policy, Ethics, and the Human Imagination
2026-02-05 17:30 - 19:30 | FGCU Cohen Student Union Ballroom
Artificial intelligence is changing how we make and create — from art and music to writing and design — and it’s raising big questions about what counts as “human” creativity.
Join FGCU for a panel discussion that will explore the policy, ethical, and educational issues around AI in creative work, including whether it is possible to use AI to spark new ideas while still valuing what makes human creativity special.

Local Voice, Local Choice: Choosing Commissioners by Single-Member Districts
2026-02-07 09:30 - 11:30 | East County Regional Library and Online
In November 2026, Lee County voters will decide by referendum to ensure your District Commissioner is chosen by the people they serve!
Hear from the experts & discuss this critical Lee County issue

breaking down the ballot language
increasing individual voter-power
improving safety
shaping the future
tackling neighborhood-specific issues
representation for communities
advocating for home district

Flowers vs. Foliage in Florida-Friendly Landscaping
2026-02-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Estero Park and Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero
Learn how to balance foliage plants and flowering plants to add both texture and color to your yard. This session will cover practical tips for selecting plants suited to your yard’s light, soil, and water conditions, with an emphasis on Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ practices.

Flowers v. Foliage (adding color to your yard)
2026-02-07 10:00 - 17:00 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero

Inside the Earth: A Koreshan Evening
2026-02-07 18:30 - 21:00 | Koreshan State Park 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero, FL 33298
Stroll along softly illuminated paths as live piano and dulcimer music drifts through the night. Sample delicious desserts from local vendors, and watch demonstrations of pioneer-era skills and crafts. As you explore the beautifully lit historic grounds, you’ll encounter costumed volunteers sharing stories of the Koreshan Unity and their unique vision that shaped this community more than a century ago.

Nisita Concert Series
2026-02-08 15:00 - 17:00 | U. Tobe Recital Hall at Florida Gulf Coast University
Join acclaimed pianists Michael Baron and Priscila Navarro for a thrilling tribute to one of America’s greatest composers, George Gershwin, in honor of the USA Semiquincentennial.

Planning Zoning & Design Board Meeting
2026-02-10 16:30 - 20:00 | Village of Estero, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Estero, FL, 33928, United States

Prioritizing Your Health: Small Habits, Big Changes
2026-02-11 01:30 - 12:30 | Healthy Life Center – Coconut Point, 23450 Via Coconut Point Estero
This session explores how small, intentional lifestyle changes can lead to lasting improvements in physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Participants will learn habit-building strategies, S.M.A.R.T. goal setting, planning and tracking tools, and how to overcome common barriers to change.

2026 Legislative Update
2026-02-11 12:00 - 13:30 | Online
An in-depth look at the current state of Florida’s 2026 legislative session, with a focus on bills that could significantly affect local planning authority, land conservation, water management, and community resilience.

Ribbon Cutting for Fifth Third Bank in Verdana
2026-02-12 11:00 - 14:00 | 20001 Verdana Village Blvd., Estero, FL 33928
The Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce is pleased to invite the community to a Ribbon Cutting for Fifth Third Bank in Verdana! Join us as we celebrate this exciting new location and welcome Fifth Third Bank to the Estero business community.
This event is FREE and open to the public, so come network with local business leaders, meet the Fifth Third Bank team, and help us celebrate another great addition to our growing community.
RSVP: Please confirm your attendance by emailing Alan Cruz at Alan.Cruz@53.com or calling 239-324-0024.

Alive After Five at FineMark Bank
2026-02-12 17:30 - 19:00 | FineMark Bank, 10010 Coconut Rd, Estero
Enjoy great conversation, and meet new peers at Alive After Five! at FineMark Bank on Thursday, February 12, 2026. From 5:30 – 7:00 pm! Mix and mingle with your colleagues in the greater Estero business community. You might even win one of our gift card or cash giveaways!
FineMark Bank is conveniently located at 10010 Coconut Road in Estero. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to build relationships, share ideas, and meet local business leaders in a fun, casual setting. Tickets are $20 for Members and just $30 for Non-Members. Get yours online at https://esterochamber.org.
The Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce invites members and non-members alike to meet, grow and work together to move your business forward in the New Year! We believe in the power of connection. Take advantage of this chance to grow your circle.

Shell Walk
2026-02-13 10:00 - 11:30 | Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach FL 33931
Join a park ranger for a shelling trip along the Lovers Key shoreline. Learn the names of the seashells you find on your walk, fun facts about the creatures who craft them, and the shelling regulations that help protect these iconic Florida treasures.

Coconut Point Art Festival
2026-02-14 10:00 - 2026-02-15 17:00 | Coconut Point Mall, 23181 Via Villagio Drive, FL

WINK News Listens
2026-02-17 08:30 - 13:00 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
WINK News is offering the public a chance to talk with a reporter one-on-one about Estero. What’s great? What needs work? They will be at the Estero Park and Recreation Center on Tuesday, February 17 from 8:30am-1pm. This is a great opportunity to Get Engaged, Estero!

Safe Bicycling in Southwest Florida
2026-02-17 11:15 - 12:15 | Healthy Life Center – Coconut Point, 23450 Via Coconut Point Estero
This presentation covers safe bicycling in Southwest Florida, including the health benefits of cycling, Florida-specific risks and laws, helmet and gear essentials, the ABC bike safety check, defensive riding skills, heat, hydration, sun safety, crash response, and a wrap-up. We will also review the status of the Bonita Estero Rail Trail (BERT) and how you can help support its future development.
