EsteroToday.com by Engage Estero

Village of Estero Council Meeting
2025-12-03 09:30 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | Village of Estero, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Estero, FL, 33928, United States

Holiday Tea at the Cottage
2025-12-03 12:00 | Estero Historical Cottage
Enjoy a sparkling libation, an assortment of savories & classic tea sandwiches, and delicate scones with clotted cream & jam in a historical setting. Celebrate the holidays in style and benefit the Society at the same time. Hats are not required, but are welcomed!

The 2025 annual Holiday Tea will be held Wednesday, December 3 at noon at the historic Cottage at the Estero Historical Society site in the park at 9285 Corkscrew Palms Blvd.

Tickets are $40 for members and $45 for future members and can be reserved at EsteroHistoricalSociety.com/events. You can save by joining online today! Seating is limited to a cozy 24 persons. Reservations open Oct. 3 and close Nov. 25.

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

Book Discussion: The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
2025-12-03 14:00 - 15:00 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Room 103B, Estero
In 1975, when a camp counselor discovers the 13-year-old daughter of the summer camp’s owner has disappeared just like her brother 14 years earlier, a panicked search begins as the secrets of the Van Laar family and the blue-collar community working in its shadow are revealed.

Cooking Demo: Strong Body, Smooth Recovery: ﻿Nutrition for Surgery
2025-12-04 11:00 - 12:00 | Healthy Life Center – Coconut Point, 23450 Via Coconut Point Estero
Join a Registered Dietitian and a Nurse Practitioner as they share how the right nutrition can strengthen recovery, reduce complications, and boost healing.

24th Annual Pottery Sale
2025-12-05 10:00 - 17:00 | Arts Complex (facing the Library), FGCU Campus
Beautiful, functional clay works from FGCU’s talented Ceramics Studio alumni are featured at this annual event, along with contributions from current faculty, students and community participants.

19th Annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser
2025-12-05 11:30 - 17:00 | Arts Complex (facing the Library), FGCU Campus
The FGCU Empty Bowls Fundraiser is committed to helping neighbors in need who are experiencing food insecurity through support for the food pantry at Interfaith Charities of South Lee. As always, there will be handmade bowls and delicious soups, dedicated student volunteers, and the friends, colleagues and community participants that make this support possible.

The Big One is Still Coming
2025-12-05 15:00 - 16:30 | Florida Blue, 8041 Plaza del Lago Drive
Dr. Michael Osterholm from the University of Minnesota discusses pandemic preparedness.

Toy Match Toy Drive
2025-12-06 11:00 - 19:00 | Coconut Point Mall
2ND ANNUAL TOY MATCH TOY DRIVE
Join Brittany Skotak & The Skotak Group as a sponsor of the Toy Match Toy Drive in Estero at Coconut Point Mall at Toy World on Saturday, December 6, 2025.
Santa himself making a special appearance to greet families, take photos, we will match any new toy donated with another new toy creating a ripple effect of generosity that will benefit even more families this holiday season.

Holiday Celebration & Tropical Parade
2025-12-06 11:00 - 20:00 | Coconut Point, Cinema Way Circle
Tropical Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting – Saturday, Dec. 6 from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Flavor Food Zone (all day): Enjoy delicious bites from participating Coconut Point restaurants in Cinema Circle.
Charity Car, Truck & Vendor Show (11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.): Free Admission cruise-in
Arts & Crafts Show (11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.): Find unique art, crafts and holiday gifts!

Planning, Zoning & Design Board Meeting
2025-12-09 16:30 - 21:30 | 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, December 9.
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:

An application to demolish the former Perkin’s restaurant at Corkscrew Road and Ben Hill Griffin Parkway to build a new Chik-fil-A restaurant with dual drive-thru. Village staff recommends approval with some updates to the proposed development plan. A public information meeting on the topic was held in June.
Proposed paint colors for a refresh of Coconut Point Mall will be shared.

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.
How to Attend
This Village Planning, Zoning and Design Board meeting will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9, in the Council Chambers at Village Hall, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle.
Meetings are also streamed live online and can be accessed here.

Songwriters Showcase at Koreshan State Park
2025-12-09 19:00 - 21:00 | Koreshan State Park 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero, FL 33298
The Friends of Koreshan State Park have partnered with the Americana Community Music Association (ACMA) to present monthly concerts featuring all-original music by talented local artists.

﻿Oh My Aching Head
2025-12-10 12:00 - 13:00 | Florida Blue, 8041 Plaza del Lago Drive
In this presentation, Florida Blue will review common symptoms and triggers for four types of headaches – sinus, cluster, tension and migraines. Plus, you’ll learn about what you can do that may prevent and or minimize your aching head.

Rethinking Roads: A Complete Streets Approach to Safer Communities
2025-12-10 12:00 - 13:30 | Online
What does it look like when roads are designed for people, not just cars? This free webinar from 1000 Friends of Florida will explore how communities are putting Complete Streets principles into action, prioritizing safety, equity, and multimodal access for all users.

Community & Membership Meeting: Traffic Survey, Septic to Sewer, Estero RiverPark
2025-12-11 10:00 - 11:30 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
Presentation-Dec-11th-Village-Update

An Executive Summary of the December 11th Community & Membership Meeting
The meeting addressed: 1) The Final Results of the Village of Estero’s 2024 Traffic Study. 2) An Update on the Septic to Sewer Program. 3) An Update on the Estero River Park.

Introduction
Estero, December 11, 2025 – Over 70 residents attended Engage Estero’s Community Meeting, which highlighted residents’ considerable interest in the Village’s infrastructure and development projects. Attendees, who filled the room, were eager to hear the updates and recommendations that emerged from Estero Village’s 2024 transportation study, the updates on the septic-to-sewer conversion project, and Estero on the River Park.
Alan Bowditch, President of Engage Estero, welcomed attendees, noting the strong turnout was encouraging and reflected the importance of the meetings the organization has hosted throughout the past year. He introduced the morning’s key speakers: Leah Holmes, Johnon Engineering Senior Executive who oversaw the comprehensive 2024 traffic survey, and David Willems, Estero Village’s Director of Public Works, and Steve Sarkozy, Estero Village’s Manager.
Traffic Study Reveals Severe Congestion and Safety Risks
Leah Holmes delivered a detailed analysis of the 2024 traffic data collected during the peak season of February and March. The study involved 24/7 roadway counts and detailed turning movement counts. The investigation even includes the often-overlooked “noon lunchtime hour peak” for some intersections. The goal was to establish a 2024 baseline and project traffic conditions out to 2034.
A key concept explained to the audience was the Level of Service (LOS), where LOS ‘A’ signifies free-flowing conditions, up to LOS ‘F’, which indicates that a roadway has exceeded its capacity, resulting in stop-and-go traffic and high congestion. The findings were stark: In current 2024 conditions, major thoroughfares like Tamiami Trail and Three Oaks Parkway already exceed roadway capacity. Looking ahead to 2034, projections anticipate that a segment of Williams Road will also exceed capacity.
Residents were particularly interested in details examining intersection performance, measured by vehicle delay. The study examined 15 signalized intersections, many of which are already over capacity in terms of vehicle delay, and several more are expected to reach capacity by 2034 if no improvements are undertaken.
High-Priority Safety Interventions
Holmes also presented a critical review of five years of crash history at key intersections. The high frequency of crashes at Tamiami Trail and Williams Road was highlighted, particularly because three of the 118 crashes recorded in that period involved fatalities, two of which were due to vehicles attempting left turns across US 41 into Williams Road oncoming traffic.
The recommendation to address this has already been put forward. It involves changing the left turns at Tamiami Trail and Williams Road from “permitted” (unprotected) to “protected only” (meaning that traffic can ONLY turn across north or south-bound traffic on US 41 on the green arrow). Residents approved the decision even though it might delay traffic making that turn. It was felt that, despite the possible inconvenience, the cost of not making that unsafe change would be unacceptable. This recommendation was considered a high priority because of its safety and operational advantages.
Other high-priority recommendations included adding a traffic signal at Tamiami Trail and Pelican Colony Boulevard, which is currently in the permitting stage, and extending the westbound left turn lane on Coconut Road, coordinating with the future Woodfield development.
Some other specific recommendations were:

Corkscrew Road (Tamiami Trail to I-75)

Lee County Cost Feasible 6-Laning

Corkscrew Road (East of Ben Hill Griffin)

Ultimate design planned for the future 6-Laning

Three Oaks Parkway

Increase capacity through Lee County involvement to meet current and future travel demands

Tamiami Trail & Estero Parkway

Estero Parkway turn lanes are insufficient in length, close the left turn into Walmart, and lengthen the dual left turn lanes onto Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41)

Monitor and improve traffic light sequencing along US41 (FDOT)
Williams Road

Potential turn lane additions at Three Oaks Parkway
Potential 2 to 4 lane widening
Scheduled roundabout addition at River Ranch Road intersection.

Tamiami Trail & Pelican Colony

Installation of a traffic signal

Tamiami Trail & Coconut Road

Extend westbound left turn lane
Future Pelican Colony traffic signal may help alleviate traffic congestion at this intersection

Corkscrew Road & Via Coconut Point

Southbound turn lane improvements could improve capacity.

Tamiami Trail & Pelican Sound Drive

Modify intersection to right-in/right-out to address unprotected movements across Tamiami Trail.
Potential future signal with development to the east

Tamiami Trail & Via Rapallo Drive

Recommend completing a signal warrant analysis

Tamiami Trail & Coconut Road

Eastbound and Westbound left turn lane improvements, along with coordination with future Woodfield development. Addition of a traffic signal (permitting stage) at Pelican Colony to help relieve congestion on Coconut Road.

Tamiami Trail & Via Rapallo Drive & Fountain Lake Boulevard

Traffic Signal warrant studies.

Tamiami Trail & Estero Parkway

Increase WB left turn lane storage (Remove Walmart left turn)

Tamiami Trail & Corkscrew Road

Modify the westbound approach to a dual left turn, single through lane, and exclusive right turn lane, as well as add a secondary right turn lane for the eastbound approach.

Tamiami Trail & Broadway Avenue

Addition of exclusive eastbound and westbound left turn lanes

Coconut Road & Coconut Shores Drive & Olde Meadowbrook

Roundabout Study

Corkscrew Road & Via Coconut Point

Southbound left turn lane extension

During the Q&A, residents expressed specific frustrations about traffic enforcement, with one attendee noting that speeding is widespread, especially on major roads like Estero Parkway and Three Oaks Parkway. The host clarified that traffic enforcement falls under the Lee County Sheriff’s jurisdiction, though the Village regularly requests stricter enforcement from the substation for roads with high complaint levels.
The presentation also highlighted the limits of Village jurisdiction. The state maintains the Tamiami Trail, while Corkscrew Road and Three Oaks Parkway are Lee County roads. Therefore, major capacity upgrades, such as the planned six-laning of Corkscrew Road, require county involvement to meet future travel demand.
Septic-to-Sewer: The Grant Funding Crucible
David Willems, Estero’s Village Director of Public Works, provided a valuable update on the septic-to-sewer project. These conversions are crucial because studies show the Estero River and Bay are impacted by high levels of nutrients and bacteria, partly due to septic tanks, especially those located near the river.
Two projects, Cypress Bend and Sunny Grove (both package wastewater treatment plants), are currently under construction. However, the fate of other large-scale projects, such as Broadway West and Cheryl Ludich Lane, depends on securing external grant funding. The grant funding issues were later discussed by the Village Manager, who expressed frustration with the delays and difficulties this process has involved. He pointed out the need to secure as many grants as possible because they significantly reduce the potential costs to residents and the Village when making these changes. In addition, if work is conducted before a grant is received, this seriously impacts the decision to agree the grant and/or the cost of that work gets deducted from the grant!
The most urgent and frustrating obstacle was the delay in securing a potential $16.5 million federal grant through the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). Willems and Village Manager Steve shared their deep “pain” and sadness over the uncertainty. The dilemma is severe: If the Village waits for the federal grant, individual resident assessments could be as low as $5,000, but if it proceeds without the grant, assessments could rise to $40,000 or $50,000.
Sarkozy said, “If we start that and proceed with the higher assessments and then the grant comes along, residents are going to be very, very upset.” This helped to clarify why the trigger hasn’t yet been pulled on construction in specific locations.
The uncertainty is worsened by a $7.5 million state grant for Broadway projects that has a tight deadline of 2029. Village officials are worried that predicted state budget shortfalls might lead to unused grant money being “swept up,” further pressuring the timeline.
The audience was very engaged and attentive to this financially sensitive topic. They expressed visible frustration with the reliance on slow-moving government bureaucracy. Willems acknowledged that this HMGP grant presents a unique opportunity, as the Village typically does not perform well on standard water quality grants due to the area’s affluent status. Although waiting is agonizing, it is the only way to prevent residents from paying substantially higher costs.
Engage Estero personnel are in regular contact with the Village Management and will keep residents updated as these issues become clearer.
Again, the entire discussion can be listened to in the YouTube video recording: https://youtu.be/IjE-YGiM0U0.
The Estero River Park and I-75 Expansion Updates
David Willems also shared an important update about the Estero River Park project (at Corkscrew Road and US 41). Although slightly delayed to a January completion, a significant milestone was recently achieved with the installation of the 12- to 13-foot-wide pedestrian bridge over the river.
A key ecological factor influencing the park’s design is the resident nesting eagles. Since the eagles are back and nesting, trails within 330 feet of the nest will be closed from October to June to adhere to regulations. The PowerPoint presentation has details of the trials and plans for the first two phases of the project.
Finally, the Engage Estero President shared fresh information about the I-75 expansion and noise barriers. The Florida Department of Transportation confirmed that no date has been set for the rescheduled public hearing on the noise barriers. Importantly, the community voting on the noise barriers will be delayed by “a year or more” beyond that future hearing, signaling a significant extension to the timeline for resolution. Engage Estero has already recommended specific noise-abatement walls (Valmont and Duracol) and the use of noise-deadening asphalt, along with a 22-foot-high wall to protect communities like The Brooks.
The meeting ended with announcements about upcoming events, including a January gathering featuring FGCU’s entrepreneurial school and Bower School of Music, as well as a major public forum in March focusing on the community’s future, with representatives from FGCU, The Village, Lee Health, and the Hoffman Group.
The host thanked the speakers, noting that their dedication to providing solutions to complex issues was valuable to our community.

Right Plant for Every Place
2025-12-11 13:00 - 15:00 | 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!

2050 LONG RANGE TRANSPORTATION PLAN Public Hearing
2025-12-12 09:00 - 11:00 | Lee County Administration East Facility, 2201 Second Street, Room 118, Fort Myers, Florida
The Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization will hold a Public Hearing for the Adoption of the 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) on December 12, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. The meeting will be held at the Lee County Administration East Facility, 2201 Second Street, Room 118, Fort Myers, Florida. This location is accessible by transit by LeeTran Route 20 and more information on service can be found at www.rideleetran.com. The 2050 Transportation Plan Adoption Summary Report and further information on the Long Range Plan can be found here: https://leempo.com/plans/long-range-transportation-plan/ The Long Range Plan identifies the cost feasible transportation projects for roads, transit and bicycle/pedestrian improvements through the year 2050.

Annual Holiday Turkey Lunch
2025-12-15 12:00 - 13:30 | The Villages at Country Creek, 21131 Country Creek Drive, Estero, FL, 33928
Join the Estero Historical Society on Monday, December 15 for a traditional turkey lunch with all the trimmings and hear local historian Jacob Winge share “Holiday Traditions on the Florida Frontier”.

Lunch begins at noon at the beautiful Country Creek Clubhouse, located at 21180 Country Creek Blvd.

Tickets are $40 each Estero Historical Society and Bonita Springs Historical Society members. Future-members are just $45.

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

Village of Estero Council Meeting
2025-12-17 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, December 17.
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:

A motion to authorize the $19 million phase 1 contract with Suffolk Construction to begin site work, infrastructure, and road networks to pave the way for the Village Sport Park.
Funding for the Village utility extension project to decommission several communities’ package wastewater treatment plans and extend Village wastewater services, including:

$557,681 for the Cypress Bend portion of the project. The rest of the project will be funded through grants and resident payments.
A $726,777 allocation for the Sunny Grove portion of the project.

In a similar vein, a motion to approve a $1.64 million contract with CW3 Engineering for design and permitting services for safety and drainage improvements to the Broadway Ave. West area. There will also be a first reading of a rezoning amendment for a 0.34-acre parcel in that area.

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.

Lee County Sheriff's Program: R.E.A.D.Y Women's Basic Self-Defense Class
2025-12-17 11:00 - 12:30 | Healthy Life Center – Coconut Point, 23450 Via Coconut Point Estero
LCSOs Heather Turco will go over personal safety and situational awareness, then teach you important and simple tactics action you can take, if you are ever threatened, facing a potential assault or worse, someone puts their hands on you. Lunch will be provided.

South County Regional Library Reopens
2025-12-18 09:00 - 17:00 | 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero
The newly renovated South County Regional Library reopens to the public! Hours of operation will be 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., Monday through Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., on Thursday, and 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., on Friday and Saturday at their 21100 Three Oaks Parkway location. A ribbon cutting will be held in January.

South County Regional Library Reopens
2025-12-18 09:00 - 18:00 | South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero, Fl 33928
The South County Regional Library will welcome back residents to the newly renovated building

"Boat America" Course
2025-12-20 | Pine Ridge Community Center, 15660 Pine Ridge Rd., Fort Myers, Fl, 33908
With Southwest Florida’s waterways bustling, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 91 of Fort Myers Beach is excited to announce a crucial opportunity for local families and boaters: the “Boat America” Responsible Boating Course on Saturday, December 20, 2025. This comprehensive class is designed to equip every family member with the knowledge and skills needed for safe, confident, and enjoyable adventures on the water.
Whether you’re a seasoned captain, a new boat owner, or simply a family looking to enhance your safety on the water, the “Boat America” course is your essential guide. Taught by experienced and dedicated Coast Guard Auxiliarists, this engaging program covers everything from navigation rules and essential safety equipment to emergency procedures and responsible environmental practices. Participants will learn how to:
· Understand the “Rules of the Road”: Navigate confidently and safely alongside other vessels.
· Equip Your Boat Properly: Know what safety gear is required and how to use it effectively.
· Handle Emergencies: Be prepared for unexpected situations, from adverse weather to mechanical issues.
· Protect Our Waters: Learn best practices for environmentally conscious boating.
· Ensure Family Safety: Special emphasis is placed on safeguarding children and all passengers aboard.
“Boating is a cherished part of the Southwest Florida lifestyle, and for many, it’s a wonderful family activity,” said Robert Guenthner, Flotilla Commander of Flotilla 91, Fort Myers Beach. “Our ‘Boat America’ course goes beyond just meeting legal requirements; it empowers families with the confidence and knowledge to prevent incidents and truly enjoy their time on the water. Every family member, regardless of age, benefits from understanding these vital safety principles.”
Even experienced boaters will find this course a valuable refresher, ensuring they are up-to-date on the latest regulations and best practices. Plus, many insurance companies offer discounts to those who complete approved boating safety courses.
Event Details:
· What: Boat America Class on Responsible Boating
· When: Saturday, December 20th, 2025
· Where: Pine Ridge Community Center, 15660 Pine Ridge Rd., Fort Myers, FL, 33908.
· Hosted by: U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 91, Fort Myers Beach
· Cost: $45 per person; Students under 17 years old are free when accompanied by a paying adult
· Registration: Online at https://www.aux91fmb.org/safeboating or 239-690-6780

Junior Ranger Program
2025-12-20 09:00 - 10:00 | Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach
Join a park ranger for a Junior Ranger educational program and accompanying activity to explore the four components of the Junior Ranger program: natural resources, cultural resources, recreation, and service. Participants will be eligible for Junior Ranger passport stamps with the successful completion of each component.

Parents Night Out Christmas Edition
2025-12-20 17:00 - 20:00 | FL

Beach Cleanup
2025-12-27 08:00 - 09:00 | Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach
Join a park ranger for a beach cleanup at Mid-Beach. Enjoy a lovely hour on the beach as you do your part to keep our state park (and planet!) clean. Participants will record the types of trash they collect, and the findings will help inform park messaging.

South County Regional Library Ribbon Cutting
2026-01-07 10:00 - 12:00 | 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

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/

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

FGCU Entrepreneurial School, Gulfshore Opera and Bower School of Music & The Arts Featured at Engage Estero Community Meeting January 29, 2026
Engage Estero’s January Community & Member Meeting features presenters on how FGCU’s entrepreneurial school benefits greater Estero, and how our cultural experiences are enriched by Gulfshore Opera.
The meeting, which is free and open to the public, will be held at the Estero Recreation Center on Thursday, January 29, at 10:00 a.m. The address is 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, located inside Estero Community Park & Recreation Center, Estero, FL 33928.
Dr. Bill McDowell, Dean, FGCU’s Daveler and Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship and Mark Ain Endowed Chair of Entrepreneurship will share how the school benefits our community and economy.
Steffanie Pearce, Founder & General Director, Gulfshore Opera will introduce its goals and the exciting upcoming season of performances.
Most residents are excited that they chose this area to live and work in. But we also need to ensure that we keep providing new opportunities and support for everyone trying to improve what is available.
Several plans and proposals are being considered for the future development of Greater Estero. There is a need for the Village, local businesses, and the public to support new business ideas that would have a positive commercial impact and prevent skilled workers from leaving our area!
Discussions are ongoing about establishing a Community Theatre Complex in Estero. However, this is unlikely to happen without support for the many existing musical genres that need backing.
Please come and listen to these dedicated individuals who are thinking of our future.
Seating is limited, so reservations are required for all attendees.
The meeting will be recorded and posted to our YouTube channel @EngageEstero, so subscribe to be notified if you cannot make it.
