EsteroToday.com by Engage Estero

Suicide Awareness and Prevention
2025-09-24 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Florida Blue, 8041 Plaza del Lago Drive
Join us for a presentation to learn about suicide awareness and prevention. We will review the warning signs of suicide and the tools and resources available to help those in need. We can all play a role in preventing suicide, so don’t miss this opportunity to learn more from a clinical expert.

Storytelling Showcase: Once Upon a Time
2025-09-24 18:00 - 19:30 | FGCU Wasmer Art Gallery, Arts Complex, FGCU
FGCU Storytelling Series presents oral storytelling as a performance art, community art, healing art. Produced by Dr. Joel Ying and Lori Cornelius for the Creative Writing Program, Dept of Language and Literature, College of Arts and Sciences.

Alive After Five! at Fresh Catch Inland
2025-09-25 17:30 - 19:00 | Fresh Catch Inland, 7991 Plaza del Lago Drive, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
Network with local business professionals, enjoy tasty appetizers and happy hour specials at Alive After Five! at Fresh Catch Inland on Thursday, September 25, 2025.
Start the evening with a Ribbon Cutting for the opening of Fresh Catch Inland at Coconut Point. Then join us for an engaging evening of conversation, connection, and community with fellow professionals and neighbors from Greater Estero. Enjoy mouthwatering appetizers and enjoy happy hour specials as you mix and mingle in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to build relationships, share ideas, and meet local business leaders in a fun, casual setting.

The fun begins at 5:30 pm on Thursday, July 10 at Fresh Catch Inland, which is conveniently located in Coconut Point at 7991 Plaza del Lago Drive, Estero.
Tickets are $20 for Members and just $30 for Non-Members. Get yours online at https://esterochamber.org/

Community & Membership Meeting: Key Developments & Fighting Fraud
2025-09-26 10:00 - 11:30 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
Presentation-Sept-26th-2025final-JGrev2
Presentation Slides

Summary
Key ongoing and planned developments for Estero.Title fraud: Don’t let scammers steal your home!
By Allan Bowditch, President, Engage Estero.
The meeting was held at the Estero Recreation Center and was attended by approximately 50 residents. After the Pledge of Allegiance, Allan Bowditch, President of Engage Estero, started the meeting with an acknowledgement and congratulations to Lou Frattarelli and his wife, Louise, for their dedication to supporting many organizations whose mission is to build a community that everyone can be proud of.
Lou has been a member of the ECCL for many years, serving on the Transportation Committee and later becoming its director.

He became a founding member of the East Corkscrew Alliance in 2016.
In 2020, Lou and Louise became volunteers with Estero Forever Foundation and members of the Estero Forever Founders Club.
They spent many hours at the driving range, providing funds for the foundation to support the community.

Their behind-the-scenes efforts during the last decade have sparked numerous improvements for our community. Estero is very blessed to have benefited from their immeasurable support and guidance. We wish them continued health and happiness in their retirement.
Key ongoing and planned developments for Estero.
Before starting the presentation on the key developments taking place in Estero, Allan conveyed Mary Gibb’s apologies for her having to address some family issues. Allan explained that, due to the work he, Mark Novitski, and Kim Dailey had contributed to the updated 61-page report on the “Urbanization of Estero” -he felt comfortable delivering the presentation.
Allan explained that residents should be aware that, because many land use applications had been made to Lee County in the 1980s and 1990s, the Village of Estero had limited control over the developments on those previously purchased acres of land. Aesthetic design is a key consideration, and those developments already completed continue to ensure Estero retains its unique style and “look”.
While residents have expressed concerns about the pace of development, developers have also expressed their concerns about the difficulties getting their applications approved.
While many residents might be tempted to halt further development, municipalities, like companies, that fail to adapt to change and address the needs of a shifting demographic will not prosper. The result will be a drop in home values if no one is attracted to live in our locality. Allan highlighted five development locations regarded as significant due to their size and location. These were:

Estero Crossing: The residential section is called “Corsa” (North of Lowes)
The F.L. Star Development, North of Broadway and East on US 41.
The Woodfield Development, Northwest Corner of US 41 & Coconut Road.
The Jones Lang LaSalle Americas, the West side of Via Coconut opposite Genova.
The Hospital Corp of America’s Property on US 41 (East side), North of Hertz.

We provide a comprehensive account of these developments in the report mentioned earlier. The developments include:

Corsa P 15,
North of Broadway/US41 P 20,
Woodfield P 21,
Opposite Genova P22,
North of Hertz/US41 P 22,

You can view the YouTube video of the presentation at this link: https://youtu.be/dC_p31l-vfM
The brief details of each development are:

1) Estero Crossing: The residential section is called “Corsa” (North of Lowes)

6 X 3 story luxury apartments (306 Units)
60,000 sq ft of commercial properties
Pedestrian-friendly, benches, and lush landscaping
Restaurants with indoor and outdoor seating, other entertainment, boutique-style shops, health & wellness offices and studios
This charming set of residential condominiums is now completed and will be home to approximately 750 residents.

2) The F.L. Star Development, North of Broadway and East on US 41

A residential development on 34 acres east of US 41 in Estero
Phase 1 has begun, including infrastructure
3 X multistory buildings with 100 units each and ten townhomes for a total of 310 units
Lee County approved 200,000 square feet for non-residential use and a 125-room hotel.
There will be a pocket park and retail stores. The population in the development will be approximately 682.

3) Woodfield Development, Northwest Corner of US 41 & Coconut Road

Phase 1 of the project has commenced, encompassing infrastructure, two apartment buildings, and restaurants.
The 45.6-acre development.
A mixed-use development. 596 residential dwelling units.
Offices, retail, restaurants, and other related uses.
Spanish Colonial Revival architecture
6-acre indigenous preserve area along the western and northern boundaries
One access point from Coconut Road at Walden Center Drive
Plans have specified the integration of a roundabout.
The expected population excluding the hotel will be around 1,300.

4) Jones Lang LaSalle Americas, located on the West side of Via Coconut, opposite Genova

A 20-acre development
Mixed-use development and a 1-acre public park
330 multi-family units, 29,600 square feet of commercial use
10,000-square-foot church
Pocket Park and other amenities.
No “under-building parking
Replaced with garages, carports, and surface parking behind the buildings
The developer will reduce the height of mixed-use buildings along Main Street from 3 to 2 stories
Ground was broken in mid-August 2025
Likely completion late 2026, with a total of approximately 730 residents.

5) The Hospital Corp of America’s Property on US 41 (East side), North of Hertz

A prime site in Estero
Development will need to achieve a high level of aesthetic design and quality because of the site’s size and location
Possibly like the Mercato in Naples.
The expected population at this site might be between 1.500 and 2,000 residents.
But no specific plan is in place currently

The Q &A:
Several questions were raised following the presentation, including:
Q1: I’m wondering when the park across from Koreshan is opening, and when they’re going to put the bridge in on 41 to cross between the canoes and Koreshan?

The 100-acre area, which combines the land on the east side of 41 with Koreshan Park, is currently in the overall planning process. The village is still in the very early stages of the plan, although Phase 1 is currently being implemented. I know that the suggestion of a bridge across US 41 has been discussed. Still, perhaps the outcome of the plans will be presented at our December 11th Community Meeting, when Chris Baker will provide an update on this situation.

Q2 I was expecting to visit the Estero on the River Park, but the first Phase was supposed to be finished, and I couldn’t get access.

Yes, it does appear that there have been delays on this project. I will see if I can get a timeline.

Q3, You didn’t mention the development, which is located across Corkscrew Road opposite Genova, where 154 homes will be built. Is it approved yet?

Yes, it has, and that one is covered in the report. They did reduce the number of homes proposed. It was initially planned for 170 homes, but the PZDB wanted the number decreased to 154. They now have access to both the east and west sides of that development, which will benefit residents and reduce the bottleneck on Sandy Lane. I think that development will start in the reasonably near future. It is called Summercrest.

Q4 Will the green grass field be left as it is next to the Hertz Office on Williams Road and US 41?

Although Allan was initially unable to answer this question, he has since found out that the 5 acres of land are owned by Hertz. It is designated for office use. Hertz has requested that the zoning be changed to residential, but that change has not been granted at this time.

Q5. That rendering of the development opposite Genova on Via Coconut, with the winding sidewalk, looked beautiful, but I think there’s a sidewalk along the curbside. So, would the developer be destroying that sidewalk and then building this beautiful aesthetic sidewalk? Which would not be great, because it looks good, and walking would be great.

Later Answer: The sidewalk will be kept. If you look, you will see that the awnings are located inside the sidewalk along the road and will remain there.

Q6 Why are so many apartments likely to be built, especially on the former property of the Hospital Corp of America?

You can acquire a significantly greater number of units if you develop apartments than if you develop single-family homes. So, I suspect that part of the reason for the desire to have more condominiums and apartments here is primarily linked to the commercial return on that investment. I think that the village is, to some degree, hindered by the uncertainty of what the plans might be. If you had 1,000 units on 100 acres, that would be only 10 units per acre. The PZDB is somewhat hindered by the regulations in place.

Q7 Why is the septic to sewer conversion taking so long?

We will hopefully have an update on timing and costs at the Dec 11th Community Meeting here at the Recreation Center at 10 am. David Willems will address this at the meeting. Mark Nowitzki has a colleague, James Root, who has actually built a house at the bottom end of Broadway, and he is also very concerned about when the project will be completed.
I am aware that a key issue has been the delay from some organizations that have promised grants for the project. The work cannot be undertaken before the grant is received; otherwise, it will be rescinded. These grants will, of course, reduce the costs to homeowners and are therefore very important. Unfortunately, this delay means that the contamination of the Estero River will continue until this issue is resolved!

Q8 Will we have a splash pool for the children in the Sports Park?

I know this question has been raised by others, but the final plans are still being worked on, so I cannot give you a final answer on that at this time..

Q9 Will we have a Veterans recognition area? (an offline question asked at the end of the meeting)

Engage Estero has, for several years, been trying to establish a recognition area for Veterans. I believe it would be a good idea to have it in a section of the Sports Park not tucked away in, the 100 Acre area along the Estero River. It would be nice for young people and older people to recognize its significance in the Sport Park when walking around.

Don’t let Scammers Take Away your Home!
The topic of title fraud addressed by Kevin Karnes, Lee County’s Clerk of the Court & Comptroller, was somewhat scary. Still, Kevin’s excellent talk was delivered with wit and panache, keeping the audience highly engaged. Kevin explained a little of the background to the work that he performs, which is to look after the Lee County funds for allocating expenditure by the various departments, amongst many other requirements.
Property fraud occurs when a party uses a forged deed to sell or transfer property that does not belong to them. While a forged deed does not actually transfer the property, it gives the appearance to the rest of the world that the ownership of the property has been changed. If you believe you have been the victim of property fraud, removing this cloud from your title can be a complicated process. Kevin pointed out that if you fail to receive your property tax details around late October/early November, this should be a sign that there is a problem!
Unfortunately, if the time gap between when a title is fraudulently changed and when you realize you haven’t received your property tax assessment is several months, it can create a significant delay. In that case, the police have little chance of finding out who was responsible. He explained that this is why you should register your property with the tax office. While they may not be able to prevent the transfer, they have a legal duty to accept transfer documents if they meet the requirements. They can notify you of a change within 24 hours, which increases the chances of catching the offenders.
Visit the Property Fraud Alert Registration page: https://or.leeclerk.org/LandMarkWeb/FraudAlert
You can register personal names, business names, trusts, and individual parcels to receive Alert Notifications. Please review these Fraud Alert Registration Tips and FAQs before signing up, as they include naming conventions and helpful tips that can significantly enhance your results. After reviewing, fill in the items on the registration page to complete the registration.
Repeat the registration process as many times as you like to register names and parcels.
You may unregister a name or parcel by entering your email address on the Property Fraud Alert Registration page and then clicking on ‘Receive Email to Edit Property Fraud Alert’. You will receive an email with a list of your registered names/parcels, along with links that allow you to un-register each one.
If you feel you need to verify that you are already registered? Enter and confirm the email address. Then click on ‘Receive Email to View Registrations.’
Sadly, if you have been the victim of property fraud, the process is currently very involved and expensive to rectify. Kevin indicated that he is attempting to get the Florida legislature to implement a process that would avoid unnecessary legal costs, but it is a complex situation.
One of the questions asked at the end of the talk was, “What do I have to do to recover the title of my home?’
If you notice something that appears to be incorrect, please don’t delay. Here are typical steps:

Report to law enforcement

Deed forgery, fraudulent conveyance, etc., are criminal acts under Florida law.
A police report helps build the case and provides you with official documentation that can be used later.
Lee Clerk’s site explicitly lists “report the crime to law enforcement” as its first recommended step.

File a civil lawsuit to “Quiet Title” (fraudulent conveyance)

A complaint for quiet title seeks a court order declaring the fraudulent deed void and restoring your ownership rights.
If successful, you can request that the Clerk remove or correct the fraudulent deed from the public records.
You may also file a lis pendens (notice of a pending lawsuit) on the property in the county’s official records, which notifies others of a dispute and can deter further tampering.

Contact the property appraiser and tax collector

A fraudulent deed might change who receives tax notices or where the tax bill is sent. That could lead to missed tax payments or auctions.
Confirm that you are still listed as the owner for tax purposes (so subsequent notices or auctions don’t affect you).

Use an attorney experienced in real property/title litigation

These cases often involve complex procedural issues, including locating and serving parties (sometimes unknown fraudsters), as well as navigating title records and property law.
The Lee County Bar Association may be able to refer qualified attorneys.

Gather and preserve evidence

Copies of the fraudulent deed, recording details, names used, etc.
Any correspondence, emails, or documents connected to the fraud.
The official records from the Clerk’s office regarding the recording.
The law enforcement report.

Notify lenders, title insurers, and other relevant parties

If your property has existing mortgages or title insurance, notify those parties about the fraud (they may have rights or be interested in protecting their interests).
Title insurers may assist in defending or covering costs, depending on the policy terms.

In recent years, Florida has specifically empowered Lee County to adopt stronger anti-fraud measures. However, as Kevin pointed out, there are restrictions on what he can and cannot do in such a situation until a court order is obtained.

The Clerk’s role is primarily ministerial: under prior law, even if a deed appeared fraudulent, the Clerk was compelled to accept and record it if it met the formal requirements for recording. The new pilot law grants some discretionary power (ID inspection) but does not allow the Clerk to refuse a properly executed instrument solely on doubt (unless it fails to meet legal form).
The Clerk does not police title fraud proactively beyond the alert system; they do not have enforcement authority to investigate or prosecute fraud (that is left to law enforcement and prosecutors).
The Clerk cannot unilaterally remove a fraudulent deed from the public record (that must come via a court order or judgment).

Engage Estero’s team extends its thanks to Kevin Karnes for his excellent presentation on this vital subject.

Presidents Report
Allan pointed out that if the Urbanization report had been billed on a commercial basis, it would have cost $38,000. The total work amounted to approximately 180 hours. Additionally, if the 26 experienced volunteers, who often work around 20-30 hours per week, were all paid a salary, the total payroll would be just under $2 million.
Engage Estero is comprised of highly experienced individuals from diverse disciplines. They have worked as CEO’s or leading managers across many disciplines. The point being made is that no one is suggesting we be paid these salaries; however, the public needs to be aware of the commitment made by the organization to keep residents informed about important facts relating to Greater Estero.
We can significantly increase our support for teachers and students if we receive more financial aid (donations) from community residents and businesses. Our expenses for supporting schools total approximately $75,000. Membership fees from HOAs and Gated Communities bring in $25,000, so even before we can provide financial support to schools or set aside funds for an Emergency Fund, we need to cover our costs.
We understand you may support many charities. Engage Estero is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, so you will receive tax benefits for any donations. Please help us do even more meaningful work for you in Greater Estero in 2026 and beyond. Visit https://esterotoday.app.neoncrm.com/forms/make-certain-our-future to help us reach our goals and improve your quality of life.

Village of Estero Council Meeting
2025-10-01 09:30 - 21:30 | Village of Estero, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
Among the items on the agenda:

Adoption of a right-of-way ordinance, which would allow the Village “regulatory authority at the local code level” to guide utility infrastructure construction in the Village’s right of way areas.
Two $800,000 state grant to offset design costs for the Orange Park utility extension project and Broadway Ave East phase 1 improvements.
An amendment to the Village’s agreement with High 5 Up Top, the partner building a recreational and entertainment facility including pickleball courts, to ensure desired architectural enhancements are included in construction without impacting the project’s timeline.

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.

Book Discussion: Boat Baby
2025-10-01 14:00 - 15:00 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Room 103B, Estero
In a memoir where heroism meets humor, NBC News anchor and correspondent Vicky Nguyen tells the story of her family’s daring escape from communist Vietnam and her unlikely journey from refugee to reporter with laughter and fierce love.

Health Care in Lee County
2025-10-04 09:00 - 11:00 | Collaboratory, 2031 Jackson Street, Fort Myers and Virtual via zoom
Susan Allen, Community Advocate and Retired Registered Nurse will speak on Development and Population Growth Impact on Public Safety and the Medically Underserved during this educational event and discussion.

Adaptive sports & Rec Day
2025-10-04 09:00 - 13:00

Florida Redistricting
2025-10-04 11:15 - 2025-10-05 12:15 | Collaboratory, 2031 Jackson Street, Fort Myers and Virtual via zoom
Update on mid-cycle redistricting, what the law says, the League’s position, discussion and opportunity for participant action on the issue.

Oboe, Clarinet and Piano Nisita Concert Series
2025-10-04 15:00 - 17:00 | U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU
An enchanting evening of chamber music featuring principal Naples Philharmonic musicians Judy Christy (oboe) and Paul Votapek (clarinet) together with pianist Michael Baron.

2050 Long Range Transportation Plan Public Workshop
2025-10-07 17:00 - 19:00 | North Fort Myers Public Library, 2001 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers, Fl
The Long Range Transportation Plan is the blueprint for all transportation planning in Lee County for the next 25 years. As such, it has far-reaching impact on timetables, funding, and priorities. If you have concerns about transportation in the future, this is the time to makes your priorities known.

Food for Thought Featuring Steven Hennigan, Lee County Port Authority
2025-10-08 11:30 - 13:00 | Embassy Suites Estero
Join Us for the October Food for Thought Luncheon!
The Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce is proud to host Steven Hennigan, C.M., ACE, CEO and Executive Director of the Lee County Port Authority, as our featured speaker for the October Food for Thought luncheon. He will provide an update on the airport and future developments impacting SWFL

Wednesday, October 8
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Embassy Suites Estero
10450 Corkscrew Commons Dr, Estero, FL 33928

Lee County’s airports are at the heart of many regional industries—supporting tourism, logistics, and economic development. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear firsthand how these vital hubs are evolving and what it means for Southwest Florida’s future.
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 (bring a guest!)
Get your tickets here: https://esterochamberfl.chambermaster.com/eventregistration/register/1261

Food for Thought
2025-10-08 11:30 - 17:00 | Embassy Suites Estero, 10450 Corkscrew Commons Dr, Estero
Lee County’s airports are at the heart of many regional industries—supporting tourism, logistics, and economic development. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear firsthand how these vital hubs are evolving and what it means for Southwest Florida’s future.

Enjoy a buffet lunch courtesy of the talented chefs at Embassy Suites, and connect with fellow business and community leaders in a relaxed setting. Members and Non-members are welcome.

Breast Cancer
2025-10-08 12:00 - 13:00 | Florida Blue, 8041 Plaza del Lago Drive
Important facts related to breast health including risk factors, early detection, signs and symptoms, treatment options, and the lifestyle choices and behaviors associated with reducing your risk of developing breast cancer.

Building Resilience Against Life's Stresses
2025-10-08 14:00 - 15:00 | Healthy Life Center – Coconut Point, 23450 Via Coconut Point Estero
Learn practical tools to strengthen emotional resilience, manage daily pressures, and bounce back from setbacks. This session empowers adults to face life’s challenges with confidence, calm, and greater mental clarity.

Village of Estero Vulnerability Assessment Public Outreach Meeting
2025-10-08 17:00 - 18:30 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
Estero residents are invited to attend the Village of Estero Vulnerability Assessment Public Outreach Meeting 1 at 5 – 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, October 8, at the Estero Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd.
The Village of Estero is conducting a Vulnerability Assessment to evaluate the potential impacts of flooding and other climate hazards on critical assets and infrastructure. This assessment will provide data-driven insights into the risks posed by climate-related hazards, ensuring the Village is better prepared for future events. Your participation is essential to developing a resilient Estero. All community members are encouraged to attend and contribute to this important effort.
Key Agenda Items:

Overview of the Vulnerability Assessment process
Discussion of local hazards and critical assets important to the community
Identification of community priorities for resilience
Next steps and timeline for the assessment

Community members play a key role in ensuring the assessment reflects local knowledge and priorities. Feedback from the public will guide the identification of critical assets, concerns about specific hazards, and potential strategies for resilience. Your input is invaluable in shaping the future of Estero.
You’re also encouraged to take a short resident survey to share your experiences and perspectives on flooding and other hazards in Estero. Your input will help guide the Village’s planning for a more resilient future: https://forms.gle/Nmdiypw2kKmRebNf8
We look forward to having you join us at the meeting.

Shell Walk
2025-10-10 09:00 - 10:30 | Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach
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.

Planning, Zoning & Design Board Meeting
2025-10-14 16:30 - 21:30 | Village of Estero, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Estero, FL, 33928, United States

Village of Estero Council Meeting
2025-10-15 09:30 - 21:30 | 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, October 15.
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:

Review of several funding requests from the state, each for $800,000: extension of the Sunny Grove sewer service and removal of the area’s existing wastewater system; reuse water tank installation at the in-progress Estero SportsPark; and improvements on Williams Road and Atlantic Gulf Drive. Over the previous 4 years, the Village secured $11 million for local projects.
A proposed contract change from approximately $400,000 to approximately $500,000 with TetraTech, the contractor working to connect Cypress Bend, Sunny Grove, and Estero Bay Village to Lee County Utilities and eliminate the neighborhoods’ private wastewater treatment plants.
Second reviews of two Village rule updates – first to right-of-way construction related to utility development and repeal of a “cost recovery” rule related to regulatory fees.

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.

Planning Under Pressure: Understanding the Impacts of Senate Bill 180
2025-10-15 12:00 - 13:30 | Online
A for a free webinar examining how Senate Bill 180 is reshaping land-use planning across Florida.

Suddenly in Command Lunch & Learn
2025-10-16 11:30 - 13:30 | Lee County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Center at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Suite 190, Estero.
The Coast Guard Auxiliary will provide participants with practical knowledge on what to do in an emergency if the skipper cannot operate the boat. Lunch is provided so registration is required.

National Mammography Day
2025-10-17 14:00 - 16:00 | Lee Health Coconut Point, 23450 Via Coconut Point Estero
Mammogram appointments available on National Mammography Day.
Attendees will have a chance to:
» Complete their annual mammogram
» Create a fresh flower bouquet
» Enjoy a delicious sample from the Lee Health
Demonstration Kitchen

EHS Speaker Series: Haunted Shores: Witchcraft and Folklore Along Florida's Coast
2025-10-18 09:30 | The Villages at Country Creek, 21131 Country Creek Drive, Estero, FL, 33928
Just in time for Halloween, join Melissa Mari, Adjunct Professor and Complete Student Navigator at Florida Gulf Coast University, for a spellbinding talk on witches and witchcraft through the ages. From myth and folklore to historical fact, Melissa will explore the cultural, social, and even political forces that shaped these enduring legends.

Join us at 9:30 am for this spectacular insight into the intersection myth and history over a delicious continental breakfast at Villages of Country Creek, 21180 Country Creek Blvd., Estero.

Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for future members. Join online today! Visit https://esterohistoricalsociety.com/events/ to RSVP.

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

Speaker Series: Haunted Shores: Witchcraft and Folklore Along Florida’s Coast
2025-10-18 09:30 - 17:00
Just in time for Halloween, join Melissa Mari, Adjunct Professor and Complete Student Navigator at Florida Gulf Coast University, for a spellbinding talk on witches and witchcraft through the ages. The presentation includes a continental breakfast. Venue: Villages at Country Creek, 21180 Country Creek Drive, Estero.

Spooktacular Night at Estero Park
2025-10-18 17:00 - 20:00 | 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero
A ghoulish good time in the park, including:
• Trunk-or-Treat
• Food Trucks
• Music
• “A Minecraft Movie”

Hazardous Waste Collection
2025-10-22 09:00 - 13:00 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
Residents will be able to dispose of household chemical waste safely and responsibly from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Wednesday, October 22. Items will not be accepted either before or after that time period.
Chemical waste categories include items that are ignitable, corrosive, explosive and/or reactive and toxic, such as leftover paints, cleaners, herbicides, pesticides, automotive fluids and pool chemicals. Never dispose of these items in dumpsters, compactors or at curbside with household garbage or down a storm drain or in the soil. See Lee County Solid Waste link for household chemical waste categories.
Items which are not household chemical waste and can be set out with household garbage include: empty paint cans, empty automotive fluid containers, small engine equipment such as pressure washers, lawn mowers, weed eaters, small electronic parts such as routers, mice, keyboard, tires and small appliances.
Estero Park is located at 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd.

Alive After Five! Miller's Ale House
2025-10-23 17:30 - 19:00 | Miller’s Ale House, 22810 Via Villagio, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
Network with local business professionals, enjoy tasty appetizers and happy hour specials Alive After Five! at Miller’s Ale House on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

Don’t miss a refreshing evening of conversation, connection, and community with fellow professionals and neighbors from Greater Estero. Enjoy mouthwatering appetizers and enjoy happy hour specials as you mix and mingle in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

The fun begins at 5:30 pm on Thursday, Oct. 23 at Miller’s Ale House, which is conveniently located 22810 Via Villagio, Estero.

Tickets are $20 for Members and just $30 for Non-Members. Get yours online at https://esterochamber.org

So bring a friend and enjoy an evening with your peers and colleagues of the Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce!

Eternal Horizons: Death And The Afterlife In Ancient Egypt
2025-10-25 14:00 - 16:00 | 20300 Trailside Dr, Estero, FL 33928
Reception honoring Pastor Frank Brand and his wife for 20 years of service at First Baptist Estero. Free and open to the public.

Community & Membership Meeting: Proton SWFL, Legal HOA Changes, Corkscrew Rd East
2025-10-28 10:00 - 11:30 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
Presentation-Slideshow-October-28th-2025
Presentation Slides

The October Engage Estero Community and Membership Meeting featured three speakers who highlighted major community developments in health care, property management, and infrastructure growth across Greater Estero. You can see the complete video of this meeting above.
Dr. Shannon McDonald, Medical Director of the Southwest Florida Proton Center, opened with an update on the region’s first proton therapy facility for advanced cancer treatment, scheduled to begin patient care in December 2025. Dr. McDonald explained how proton therapy differs from conventional photon radiation: protons stop precisely at the tumor site, minimizing radiation exposure to healthy tissues and organs. This makes it especially valuable for treating cancers near critical structures such as the brain, spine, eyes, and heart, as well as in pediatric cases where long-term side effects can be severe.
She traced the therapy’s history from the first Harvard cyclotron in the 1960s to today’s 46 U.S. centers—soon to include the Estero facility. The new Proteus One system will be capable of treating a wide range of cancers and staffed by experienced specialists from national cancer centers. She fielded questions about Medicare coverage, emerging technologies such as carbon-ion therapy, and patient access. Dr. McDonald noted that while the Estero center is new, her 19 years of proton experience and a highly trained team ensure continuity of care for local residents. A former patient shared his positive experience with proton therapy as a treatment for prostate cancer at Massachusetts General, drawing warm applause from attendees.
Next, Andy Provost, General Counsel for Resort Management, outlined recent legislative changes affecting condominium and homeowner associations under Florida’s House Bill 913. Key updates include:

Requirements that board and annual meetings conducted by video must also provide a physical location, be recorded, and have recordings retained for one year.
Conflict-of-interest disclosures for management companies with related business interests exceeding $2,500.
New financial reporting standards: associations must now secure majority votes from all owners to waive annual audits, and officers must sign affidavits confirming compliance.
Revised inspection laws following the Surfside collapse now require milestone structural inspections at 30 years and every 10 years thereafter, and detailed reserve (SIRS) funding studies by 2025.Provost emphasized that these mandates increase board accountability and transparency but also add financial strain and record keeping responsibilities. He cautioned that recorded meetings become official records and may carry legal risk during insurance claims or litigation.

The final speaker, Mark Novitski, consultant to Engage Estero and chair of the East Corkscrew Alliance, provided updates on transportation and development east of I-75. He reported ongoing delays in the Corkscrew Road widening—now projected to extend into 2026—and warned that over 35,000 homes are approved or under construction along the corridor, potentially adding 70,000+ new residents. Novitski urged continued advocacy for traffic safety, new schools, and better access to the Larry Kiker Preserve. He also addressed community concerns about e-bike safety, car-carrier parking, and the long-delayed Bella Terra cell tower.
Engage Estero President Allan Bowditch closed the meeting by previewing upcoming meetings and events:

Dec. 11: Community Meeting: Village of Estero Traffic Study, Septic-to-Sewer and Estero River Park updates.
Jan. 29: Community Meeting: FGCU Entrepreneurship School and Enhance Musical Arts Opportunity with FGCU Bower School of Music and the Gulfshore Opera Information.
Feb. 26: Don Eslick Person of the Year Dinner honoring Dr. Larry Antonucci.
Mar. 17: Public Forum on “The Future of Estero.”

Bowditch thanked attendees for their continued support and encouraged donations at EsteroToday.com to sustain Engage Estero’s community initiatives.

Jaw vs. Claws
2025-10-31 18:30 - 20:00 | Estero High School, 21900 River Ranch Road, Estero, FL 33928
Root for your favorites at the annual meeting of cross-town Varsity High School football rivals. The Bonita Springs Bull Sharks play against home team Estero Wildcats in an exciting game this month. Tickets will be available online.
