ESTERO2018
1 www.EsteroChamber.org Official Annual Publication of the Estero Chamber of Commerce
www.EsteroChamber.org
HOUCK
DERMATOLOGY
Skin Cancer Screening Exams
Skin Cancer Surgery | Mole Removal
Acne | Rosacea | Warts | Cyst Removal
Psoriasis | Eczema | Rashes | Cold Sores
Skin Infections | Hair & Nail Conditions
Botox | Juvederm | Perlane | Restylane
Microdermabrasion | Micropeels
Facials | Chemical Peels
239.390.DERM (3376)
www.HouckDermatology.com
Bonita Springs
3501 Health Center Boulevard
Suite 2200
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Estero
10201 Arcos Avenue
Suite 203
Estero, FL 33928
Naples
5100 Tamiami Trail North
Suite 102
Naples, FL 34103
1 www.EsteroChamber.org
Contents
4 Welcome
Welcome from our Chamber President as we celebrate 20 years of maintaining
prosperity for our business community and quality of life for our citizens.
6 Estero Chamber – Our 20th Year
Photo Gallery and Chamber Events overview.
8 Our Public Officials
Greetings from our Mayor.
10 Our Community
A rich history and heritage.
20 Explore & Discover
Enjoy activities and pastimes that appeal to every age and interest.
• The Arts & Cultural Organizations
• Beaches & Waterways
• Eco-Explorations: Parks, historic sites, natural preserves & canoe/kayak excursions
• Family Fun: Destinations and activities for everyone
• Restaurants & Shopping
• Sports & Recreation
30 Calendar of Events
Celebrations that invite your participation throughout the year.
34 Information Directory
Helpful numbers and demographics for visitors, new residents and businesses.
• Community Demographics
• Government & Community Services
• Health Care Resources
• Schools & Education
• Transportation
• Utilities
42 Membership Directory
Choose our experienced Chamber members whenever you need a product or
service at home or at work.
56 Map
ESTERO2018 Cover THE ESTERO CHAMBER
Photos from around Estero OF COMMERCE
Official Annual Publication of the Estero Chamber of Commerce • www.EsteroChamber.org
show the diversity of nature in MISSION STATEMENT
our area.
The Estero Chamber of Commerce
(Left photo provided by Lee promotes economic growth and business
County Parks & Rec.) development in the Greater Estero area.
2 www.EsteroChamber.org
Welcome 2018 EDITION
A Message From the President of the Official Annual Publication of the
Estero Chamber of Commerce
T Estero Chamber of Commerce
he Estero Chamber of Commerce is honored to represent P.O. Box 588, Estero, Florida 33929
so many diverse community businesses throughout our Phone 239-948-7990 • Fax 239-948-7519
Southwest Florida Region. We strive to be an integral part
of this vibrant area, offering critical programs which assist local www.EsteroChamber.org
business growth and create healthy communities in which to live.
It is very clear that our Estero area will continue to see tremendous BOARD OF DIRECTORS
growth in the future. As a voice of the business community, the
Estero Chamber of Commerce plays a key role in the energetic Chairman of the Board
atmosphere where businesses are flourishing and expanding. Gene Montenieri • GMS Smart Solutions
Our engagement with the Florida State and U.S. Chambers con-
tinues to strengthen, providing our community businesses with powerful information President
and tools to enhance their growth and profits. Judi Gietzen • Elite Realty of Southwest Florida
For additional information regarding the Estero Chamber of Commerce, we invite
you to visit our website at www.EsteroChamber.org. Vice President
Wishing you a Successful 2018. Kaci Carter • Valley National Bank
Judi Gietzen Treasurer
Al O'Donnell • O'Donnell Landscapes, Inc.
2017-2019 President
Secretary
Estero Chamber Honorees Nella DeCesare • WBN Marketing, LLC
2017 2012 DIRECTORS
Dr. Wilson G. Bradshaw, President, Lizbeth Benacquisto, Florida Senator,
Commander Morgan Bowden
Florida Gulf Coast University District 30 Lee County Sheriff’s Office
Best Moving & Storage The News-Press Media Group
Rosyln M. Gula, Trish Leonard
2011 TLC Marketing and Creative Services
Estero Chamber of Commerce Mike Scott, Lee County Sheriff
Lee Memorial Health System Brandy Minchew
2016 College of Life Foundation
Scott Vanderbrook, Fire Chief, 2010
Tammy Hall, Lee County Bill Oberman
Estero Fire Rescue Commissioner, District 4 United Materials, Inc.
Hampton Inn & Suites Estero
Boston Red Sox Dallas Revord
2015 FineMark National Bank & Trust
Ray Rodrigues, State Representative, 2009 & 2003
Ray Judah, Lee County Commissioner, Cheryl Willett
District 76 Accounting For Profitability, LLC
TLC Marketing & Creative Services District 3
NCH Healthcare Systems Administrative Assistant
2014 Pam Mueller
Estero Council of Community Leaders 2008
Gulf Coast Town Center Marketing Assistant
All American Printing (Tom Funari, General Mgr.) Samantha Simcox
2013 2007 Legal Counsel
Richard Schweers, Thomas Schneider, Executive VP, Carl E. Westman, Esq.
Chairman of the Board, Simon Property Group/Coconut Point
GrayRobinson, Inc.
Estero Fire Rescue
Ft. Myers Regional Webmaster
Economic Partnership WBN Marketing, LLC
Person of the Year Business of the Year Volunteer of the Year PUBLISHED BY
Platinum Media Services of SW Florida, Inc.
10285 Winterview Drive • Naples, FL 34109
239-572-4000 • platinummediaservices.com
Publisher - Sharon Van Rite
Editor - Bill Oberman
Creative Director - Zina Cochran
Contributing Photographers
Jeff Cochran, Zina Cochran,
Brandy Minchew
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information
contained herein; however, neither the Estero Chamber of Commerce
and its members nor Platinum Media shall be held liable for any errors
or omissions. Copyright ©2018 Platinum Media Services, Inc. No part
of this publication may be reproduced in any form, including electronic
or Internet reproductions, without written permission from the publisher.
DISCLAIMER: Advertisements in this publication do not constitute an offer
for sale in states where prohibited or restricted by law.
4 www.EsteroChamber.org
The Pavich Family Of Realtors®
OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU!
J. PAVICH REAL ESTATE
Proudly Serving the SWFL Real Estate Market Since 1995
Estero Residents Since 1989
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 5
Chamber Events
Throughout the year, the The Estero Young Professionals Network MONTHLY
Chamber organizes a fosters a lively exchange of ideas while building CHAMBER
variety of events to provide professional contacts.
educational and networking EVENTS
opportunities for our
members. Non-members are All Chamber events are open to
also welcome to attend to members and guests. Join us!
foster exposure and grow our
business community. Chamber Rise & Shine Estero
involvement is an excellent
way to meet fellow residents, 8 - 9:30 a.m.
leaders and business owners. First Thursday
Start your day with networking
Business After Hours events offer the Lunch & Learn combines a wonderful lunch and a Continental breakfast
opportunity to mingle, build contacts and share with excellent speakers on a variety of subjects.
ideas while enjoying hors d’ oeuvres and light Lunch & Learn
refreshments.
11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
The Annual Luncheon honors citizens and Ribbon Cuttings give valuable, much-needed Second Wednesday
Chamber businesses who contribute to the exposure to new Chamber business members. Enjoy a delicious lunch while
Estero community. staying up-to-date on the latest
community and business news
Rise & Shine events start the day with good coffee, good conversation and valuable networking.
6 www.EsteroChamber.org Business After Hours
5:30 - 7 p.m.
Fourth Thursday
Mix and mingle with fellow and
future members after work at these
informal networking events
that feature hors d’oeuvres
and light refreshments
Estero Young
Professionals Network
(YPN)
Social and educational
monthly events featuring inspiring
guest speakers. Open to ages
21 to 35, the YPN offers
opportunities to build your
professional network and enhance
your career. For more
information, contact Estero YPN at
[email protected]
Chamber Membership
& Event Registration
Become a member and register
for events online at
www.EsteroChamber.org.
For more information,
please contact us
239-948-7990
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 7
Our Public Officials
Welcome to the Pictured Above... Seated left to right - Vice Mayor William Ribble, Mayor James Boesch, Councilmember
Village of Estero! Nick Batos. Standing left to right - Councilmember Howard Levitan,
You will Councilmember Jim Wilson, Councilmember Katy Errington, Councilmember Jon Mclain.
fall in
love with The Plan for Estero
Estero and the
surrounding The Village’s first Comprehensive Plan is underway and, as the
area. Our home, planning progresses, all of the latest information will be added to a new webpage
along the Gulf of on the Village’s website at https://Estero-FL.gov/.
Mexico, is filled
with wonderous A Comprehensive Plan serves as a guide to how a community will grow
beauty and and develop in the future. This new Comprehensive Plan webpage includes
glorious surprises. This is the year to information on all of the meetings conducted to date, including copies
truly appreciate being in paradise, so of the presentations, as well as a link where residents may provide their
look forward to an experience that suggestions to this important planning process.
exceeds imagination.
Our annual chamber guide OUR REPRESENTATIVES
encourages residents and visitors
alike to explore – to savor the natural STATE OF FLORIDA LEE COUNTY
environment and enjoy the multitude
of pleasures that abound in this unique State Senator Lee County has five County Commis-
and extraordinary area. Lizbeth Benacquisto . . . . . . . . District 26 sioners who are all representatives at
Play golf on the finest courses, (239) 338-2570 large. You may contact any and all of
enjoy natural beauty paddling down them about any issue of interest.
the Estero River, take in an Everblades State Senator
hockey game, learn the history of the Denise Grimsley. . . . . . . . . . . District 26 Larry Kiker. . . . . District 3 - Estero
Koreshan Historic Site, relax on nearby (863) 465-2626 (239) 533-2223
beaches and cruise the Gulf of Mexico [email protected]
and barrier islands. There is so much State Senator
to see and explore. Kathleen Passidomo . . . . . . . . District 28 John E. Manning . . . . . . . . . District 1
Shopping, dining and (239) 417-6205 (239) 533-2224
entertainment options abound with
local favorites, national brands and State Representative Cecil Pendergrass . . . . . . . . District 2
world-class performers that make Ray Rodrigues . . . . . . . . . . . . District 76 (239) 533-2227
Estero a perfect destination and home. (239) 433-6501
All the luxuries and conveniences of
a contemporary lifestyle are readily
available.
Just like many visitors, you may
choose to make this your home - many
fine communities are available to
accommodate your individual lifestyle.
We welcome our new neighbors.
We are proud of Estero and want
to share our love of this area with you
– and hope that you will come to enjoy
and treasure our little piece of paradise.
Jim Boesch
Mayor, Village of Estero
8 www.EsteroChamber.org
Brian Hamman . . . . . . . . . . District 4
(239) 533-2226
Frank Mann. . . . . . . . . . . . . District 5
(239) 533-2225
Estero Fire Rescue
Fire Chief. . . . . . . . Scott Vanderbrook
Estero Fire Rescue
Commissioner. . . . . Richard Schweers
Lee County Sheriff’s Office
Sheriff. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mike Scott
U.S. SENATE
Two United States Senators
represent all of Florida:
Senator Bill Nelson
(D – FL)
716 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
(202) 224-5274
www.BillNelson.Senate.gov/Contact-bill
Senator Marco Rubio
(R – FL)
284 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
(202) 224-3041
https://www.Rubio.Senate.gov/Public/
index.cfm/Contact
U.S. HOUSE OF
REPRESENTATIVES
One U.S. Representative
covers all of Estero.
Rep. Francis Rooney
Washington, D.C.: (202) 225-2536
Lee County: (239) 599-6033
www.FrancisRooney.House.gov/
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 9
OUR COMMUNITY
The Estero Historical Society survived the impact of
Hurricane Irma thanks to the many volunteers that
helped protect and cleanup the restored buildings.
Key dates and events in the region’s history
• 1810 President James Madison declares • 1845 Florida entered the Union as a slave with his cabin, which may be the oldest sur-
West Florida to be a U.S. possession. state, with a population of about 140,000. viving building in Lee County.
• 1817 to 1858 The Seminole Wars (three • Early 1880s Immigrant German Gustave • 1884 to 1885 The Estero Land Co. was set
conflicts) were fought between the Seminoles, Damkoehler and his family moved to Estero as up in Key West to sell acreage here. Per the
many of whom had formed alliances with the the area’s first homesteaders, eventually own- Florida census, Estero’s population was 29
British or Spanish, and the U.S. Army. By the ing 320 acres. Damkoehler experimented with people from nine families.
end of the wars, only about 200 Seminoles raising honeybees, pineapples and coconuts • 1890s Citrus growers arrived, including
remained alive and free. and collected rare trees he received from a Hafner and Floweree. Estero’s first school-
• 1819 Spain ceded East Florida to the U.S. friend in Australia. Some of the trees remain in house was built, a wooden structure that was
the gardens at the Koreshan State Park along relocated to Estero Community Park by the
10 www.EsteroChamber.org
A Rich History and Heritage
A RICH HERITAGE
Our community is named after the Estero River, a scenic
freshwater ribbon that opens into Estero Bay, a treasured and
protected aquatic preserve. Here, stately live oaks, color-saturated
blooms, elegant wading birds and even elusive Florida panthers
are all part of Estero’s beautiful tapestry of plants and wildlife.
Mother Nature’s year-round sunshine invites healthy out-
door fun and explorations. Our championship golf courses, miles
of bike paths and well-marked paddling and nature trails present
endless options. Parks, preserves and historic sites beckon every
age. Just minutes away, pristine sugar-sand beaches hug the spar-
kling Gulf of Mexico and stretch for miles.
Estero also offers exceptional community resources, state-of-
the-art healthcare facilities and educational institutions, perform-
ing arts centers, museums and art galleries and world-class shop-
ping and dining. All are within easy reach of Estero’s charming
neighborhoods.
Calusa Indians and Spanish Adventurers
Estero’s colorful past includes Native Americans, Spanish
adventurers, enterprising pirates, hardy pioneers and forward
thinking entrepreneurs.
More than 2,000 years ago, several tribes of Native Ameri-
cans made up the Calusa nation and established settlements in
Southwest Florida near fresh water tributaries. They paddled cy-
press canoes to colonies in other areas of Florida and used shells
discarded from their seafood-rich diet to construct huge flat-
topped pyramids, or mounds, that served as temples and dwell-
ings. Archeologists believe that Mound Key in Estero Bay was the
ceremonial center for the Calusa. This 125-acre island, soaring
some 33 feet high, is the highest Calusa mound in Florida and
was probably the center of an extensive network of shell islands
that made up the kingdom of this hunting and gathering people.
The Calusa dominated Southwest Florida until the 1500s,
when Ponce de Leon and other Spanish explorers and pirates ar-
rived. These new inhabitants named the area “Estero,” the
Spanish word for estuary, a body of water formed where freshwa-
ter from a river flows into the ocean.
During the 1600s, Spaniards continued exploring “La
Floride.” Estero Bay was a frequent hideout for pirates who raid-
ed Spanish galleons loaded with New World gold.
Estero Historical Society for use as a museum • 1903 A new and larger general store re- • 1907 The Town of Estero was dissolved by
and society center. placed the original, and the post office was the State of Florida.
• 1894 A celibate community, followers transferred to Highlands Avenue in the home • 2014 Estero voted to become its own mu-
of “Koresh,” Dr. Cyrus Teed, moved from of Postmaster Frank Hall. nicipality, the Village of Estero, within Lee
Chicago to 300 acres along the Estero River, • 1908 Floweree was the largest citrus grove County.
donated by Damkoehler. owner in America, with 60,000 trees. East • 2015 Estero held an election for the first
• 1895 The Estero Post Office was established Broadway used to be Floweree Lane. village council. The elected council’s inaugural
in a small, one-room general store on the • 1904 Estero was incorporated by the meeting was held, and Nick Batos was voted
Estero River. Koreshans. the village’s first mayor.
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 11
The Calusa culture eventually died "...our community enjoys a period are maintained at the Koreshan
out, as common European illnesses such State Historic Site. The land was given to
as smallpox and measles decimated the culture of active involvement, the State of Florida in 1961 by the remain-
sheltered tribes. By 1700, their population, with residents, businesses, ing four Koreshans.
once more than 20,000 strong, had been and local government work- In 1904, Estero’s second public school,
reduced to a few thousand. Bands of Native ing together for the good of the one-room Estero Creek School, opened
Americans from the Southeastern United on land deeded by Mr. and Mrs. F.M.
States began moving into Florida and be- the Estero community." Hendry. The school operated until 1927
came known collectively as and the building is now part of the Estero
the Seminole. smith shop and saw mill. They also estab- Historical Society’s headquarters at Estero
Estero’s Early Pioneers lished a school, built an art hall for their Community Park. It sits next to a restored
Estero’s first reported homesteaders symphony orchestra and theater group, and 1906 house originally owned by Frank
were Gustave and Alma Damkoehler, who planted exotic vegetation gathered from Hall, a trustee of the school.
arrived from Germany in 1882 to raise around the world. The Broadway Estero School, a four-
honeybees and silkworms along the Estero By 1904, the Koreshans were able room, Mediterranean Revival style school
River. No roads connected Estero to the to incorporate 110 square miles into the with indoor plumbing, was built in 1927
outside world, so Damkoehler used the Town of Estero, with boundaries extending to accommodate 100 students. It was in use
river to ship his harvests north through the from south Fort Myers to Bonita Beach until 1949 and still sits next to the old post
Gulf of Mexico. Road, in Bonita Springs, and encompassing office on Broadway Avenue East.
Estero’s most noted pioneer was Cyrus Lovers Key State Park and the town of Fort An Evolving Community
R. Teed, the leader of the Utopian group Myers Beach. The Town of Estero was later Throughout the first half of the 20th
known as the Koreshan Unity. Teed and dissolved by the State of Florida in 1907. century, Estero was a quiet, sleepy citrus
some of his followers began settling along Today, 11 structures from that time community that harbored small retirement
the Estero River in 1894, and Damkoehler neighborhoods. The area’s first major de-
donated 320 acres of land to them. velopment, Estero River Heights, was built
During the early 1900s, the Koreshans along the river during the late 1960s.
opened a post office, a store, and a black- New neighborhoods and businesses
Early Estero Education
This building housed the Estero Elementary School from 1925
to 1949, when it closed and many of its students ended up in
schools in Fort Myers. Educating 65 students ranging in grades
one through eight was challenging, as many of the students' fami-
lies came from places as far away as Ireland and Spain. Since the
school had no lunchroom, students either went home for lunch or
ate in a small building behind the school. The building is now a
private residence.
Below is Estero's first school, the Estero Creek School. It was
open from 1896 to 1904, at which time it closed and the students
attended a larger school. You can see the school and a restored
cottage at the Estero Historical Society, located in the Estero
Community Park. Docents are available Monday, Wednesday and
Friday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Volunteers and furnishings from the
time period are welcomed.
(Above) The restored Estero Creek School today.
12 www.EsteroChamber.org
were sparked by the opening of Southwest Direct Line: 239-565-4268
Florida International Airport in 1983. Email: [email protected]
Local educational and career opportuni-
ties expanded when Florida Gulf Coast 2014-2015 Rotarian of the Year
University admitted its first students in Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS)
1997. Germain Arena and Miromar Out-
lets arrived in 1998, increasing Estero’s Transnational Referral Certification (TRC)
year-round population and real estate Resort & Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS)
values. The nearby Miromar Design Cen-
ter, a high-end resource of designer show- 26811 S. Tamiami Trail • Bonita Springs, FL 34134
rooms, also draws attention to the area. In
2006, the open air Coconut Point Mall 2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 13
was completed in Estero, featuring more
than 140 shops, stores and restaurants.
Estero continues to evolve. In 2013,
after conducting a nationwide search,
Hertz Global Holdings opted to move
its headquarters to Estero. By the end of
2015, some 650 employees moved into
the modern, LEED-certified building.
Planning for the Future
During the early 2000s, a group of local
residents, including Don Eslick and Neal
Noethlich, decided to form the Estero
Council of Community Leaders (ECCL)
to address resident concerns and sugges-
tions about how Estero should grow and
evolve.
The ECCL, the Estero Commu-
nity Planning Panel and Estero Design
Review Committee established the ar-
chitectural and landscaping guidelines
that now define Estero. Today, attractive
buildings such as Lowe’s, Walmart and
those at the Coconut Point Mall exem-
plify Estero’s high aesthetic and develop-
ment standards.
In July 2013, the ECCL initiated
incorporation efforts with a successful re-
sult, and Estero officially became the Vil-
lage of Estero on December 31, 2014. A
seven-member village council was elected
on March 3, 2015, and Nick Batos was
elected mayor at the first Estero Village
Council meeting, on March 17, 2015.
Thanks to the ECCL, dedicated Vil-
lage personnel and the local Chamber,
our community enjoys a culture of active
involvement, with residents, businesses,
and local government working together
for the good of the Estero community.
Thoughtful development guidelines es-
tablished by these visionary community
leaders will help protect Estero’s natural
beauty for future generations.
Today, the recently incorporated
Village of Estero—the “Village with a Vi-
sion”— continues to welcome individu-
als, families and businesses with attrac-
tive wages, a low cost of living, a healthy
outdoor lifestyle, and friendly neighbor-
hoods with hometown values. One visit
to our community often turns into the
decision to stay a lifetime!
A GREAT PLACE TO VISIT, WORK AND LIVE
Southwest Florida If you ask Estero residents to name the Council of Community Leaders (ECCL) and
International Airport (RSW) village’s best asset, they are likely to say, “its the Estero Village Council, which carefully
people.” Our village is a dynamic mix of monitor and safeguard the area’s natural re-
www.flylcpa.com young families, active retirees and business sources and uncommon beauty.
RSW is ranked as one of the na- professionals who together create a strong Educational Excellence
tion’s top 50 airports for passenger traf- sense of community. Here, newcomers are Estero and Lee County classrooms cover
fic. It serves five counties—Lee, Collier, welcomed, long-time residents are respect- pre-school to doctoral programs, and qual-
Charlotte, Hendry and Glades—and ed, and visitors feel right at home. ity education is a top priority. The public
is just minutes away from the heart of Residential options abound: well-kept school district offers traditional, gifted and
Estero. The airport offers non-stop ser- homes and cottages in mature neighbor- vocational schools, plus magnet schools
vice to destinations nationwide, as well hoods, as well as golf course and resort with an emphasis on special programs. Ac-
as to Germany and Canada. communities that offer single-family credited higher education facilities, includ-
The airport’s Midfield Terminal Com- homes, maintenance free villas, townhomes ing Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU),
plex includes roadways that allow easy and condominiums. Carefully designed Florida Southwestern State College and
access from two I-75 exits: Daniels Park- shopping and medical centers, office parks Hodges University, are within minutes of
way and Alico Road. And, a new Airport and business sites boast easy access and Estero and offer on-site and distance-learn-
Direct Connect route makes it even easier ample parking. ing programs for working adults.
to reach the airport from I-75. Clustered on both sides of U.S. 41, Es- Community & Cultural Resources
Anticipating future growth in tero’s neighborhoods are all close to shop- State of the art health care services are com-
population and flights, RSW has com- ping, dining and entertainment; schools, ing to the residents of the Estero area. Lee
mitted to several construction projects including Florida Gulf Coast University; Health - Coconut Point is a 30-acre medi-
during the next decade. The terminal is top-notch hospitals and medical facilities; cal campus that will open in 2018. Services
expandable to 65 gates with the ability pristine beaches; golf and tennis amenities; will include a freestanding ER, an outpa-
to serve more than 16 million passen- and marinas and parks. tient surgery center, a wellness center and
gers annually. Estero is also home to two regional a variety of other medical clinics to serve
shopping centers: Coconut Point Mall and the community. The 163,000-square-foot
Miromar Outlets. Miromar Design Center, campus will also offer outpatient surger-
providing everything related to interior ies, imaging services, testing labs, a cardiac
design, is across from the Outlets. Nearby, rehabilitation center, a medical observation
Gulf Coast Town Center offers shoppers unit and a pharmacy.
another full range of retail choices.
Estero’s growth and progress is stewarded continued on page 17
by community groups including the Estero
Estero Community Park large multi-purpose rooms accommodate Lee County residents are eligible for
dance and martial arts classes and other individual ($10) or family ($25) lifetime
One of the largest parks within Lee community activities. memberships that allow them to visit the
County’s Parks & Recreation System, Es- center any time during open hours. A $5
tero Community Park is a 55-acre wonder- An art studio, set up for instruction and day pass is available for visitors.
land for all ages. Its amenities include: complete with kiln and adjoining outdoor 9200 Corkscrew Palms Boulevard (off
patio, is home to the Estero Art League. Corkscrew Road) 239-498-0415;
• Indoor and outdoor public www.LeeGov.com/Parks. Park hours: Dawn
Wi-Fi access History buffs will be intrigued by to 9 p.m. daily; Rec Center hours: 7 am. to
• 5K cross-country course the Collier House, an old cracker-style 9 p.m., Monday-Thursday, 7 a.m. to
• Lakes and a playground farmhouse, and a 1904 schoolhouse recently 7 p.m., Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday
• Lighted sand volleyball courts relocated to the grounds. The restored Collier and Sunday.
• Horseshoe pits and bocce courts House is the headquarters for the Estero
• Fenced off-leash dog park, Historical Society; the schoolhouse is a
with shelter museum.
• Picnic shelters and two
rentable pavilions
• Multi-purpose Bermuda fields
• Walking trails
• Outdoor amphitheater
• 18-hole disc golf course
The outdoor theater is part of the
40,000-square-foot Recreation Center,
which contains a teen center (TV, DVD,
video game station), computer lab (for
classes and personal use), and well-
equipped fitness center.
The Rec Center also has three full-size
basketball courts that can host collegiate-
level games as well as volleyball. Several
14 www.EsteroChamber.org
“I can’t express how much
of an impact you have had on our son.
He functions so much better
at school and home
because he has the words.
Thanks for contributing so profoundly
to his happiness.”
Does your son have trouble
following directions and
answering questions?
Home, School
& Community-Based
TESTING • THERAPY • TRAINING
Speech and Language Services
Articulation
Language Understanding/Expression
Reading • Writing • Fluency
Play • Social Emotional
Is your daughter's
speech
difficult to
understand?
Kristi-Leigh Lyon, Speech-Language Pathologist
“Enhancing Communication
One Child and Family at a Time”
9990 Coconut Road, Suite 228, Estero, FL
(239) 253-1290 • [email protected]
www.EsteroSpeech.com
Kristi-Leigh Lyon is an approved Step Up for Students
Gardiner Scholarship provider.
The cost of your child’s communication services EsteroSpeech
may be covered by The Gardiner Scholarship Program.
www.stepupforstudents.org/for-parents/special-needs/how-the-scholarship-works/
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 15
Top to bottom: Koreshan State Park
Planetary Court,
During the late 1890s, a celibate Utopian
Dining Hall group led by Dr. Cyrus R. Teed came to Estero
Landing, to build their “New Jerusalem”. The colony,
known as the Koreshan Unity, believed that the
Machine Shop entire universe existed within a giant, hollow
and the Bakery. sphere. Gentle, peace-loving and good neighbors,
the Koreshans were industrious and contributed
to early Estero society through art, music, theater
and enterprise.
When Teed died in 1908, the group be-
gan breaking up and the Koreshans gradually
dwindled in number. The four remaining mem-
bers deeded the Koreshan property to the State
of Florida in 1961.
Today, the Koreshan State Park includes sev-
eral of the original society’s preserved buildings
that date between 1882-1920. Fishing, camping,
hiking, picnicking and canoeing along the scenic
Estero River are popular activities here. Park
rangers offer guided walks and a variety of other
programs, according to seasonal demand (see the
Calendar of Events). A full-facility campground
accommodates overnight stays.
3800 Corkscrew Road (off U.S. 41), Estero.
239-992-0311; www.FloridaStateParks.org.
Admission is $5 per vehicle.
Photo courtesy of Koreshan State Park
Display showing the Koreshans’ view of the world.
16 www.EsteroChamber.org
zations that go out of their way to help
newcomers and long-time residents feel at
home (see the “Non-Profit/ Community
Organizations” listings in the Membership
Directory).
South County Regional Library Business Opportunities FGCU’s ETI
Estero is home to Lee County’s second Strategically located between Naples to the
largest library, South County Regional. The south and Fort Myers to the north, Estero Florida Gulf Coast University’s
32,600-square-foot facility offers compre- is a prime site for new and relocating busi- Emergent Technologies Institute
hensive library resources with a computer nesses. The village offers a wealth of of-
training room. Through book sales, vol- fice, retail and manufacturing space and is FGCU’s Emergent Technologies
unteer efforts and author luncheons, the minutes away from I-75, Southwest Florida Institute (ETI) is a 25,000-square foot
Friends of the Library organization helps International Airport (RSW) and Florida facility emphasizing renewable energy
support this exceptional facility. Gulf Coast University. Skyplex, at the and environmental sustainability. It
Public safety is ensured by Estero Fire airport, is located within a Foreign Trade houses research labs, classrooms and
Rescue, dedicated to public education, infor- Zone and has more than 1,000 acres that meeting rooms and a 2.5-acre energy
mation and fire investigations in addition to are zoned and ready to develop for com- park with outdoor space for conduct-
rescue operations. The organization has won mercial and retail use. ing experiments and demonstrating
national awards, maintains a training school, Estero’s unique location and amenities, technology.
and has four stations to effectively serve the combined with Florida’s business-friendly
community. policies, led the Hertz Corporation to relo- The ETI is the cornerstone of
The Senior Friendship Center (SFC) cate its headquarters from Park Ridge, New the Innovation Hub (iHub), a 240-
provides medical, meal and specialty services Jersey, to Estero. It was the first relocation of acre research park off Alico Road near
to area seniors. Other local nonprofits, such a Fortune 500 headquarters to the region. the airport. A magnet for technology
as St. Vincent de Paul, Catholic Charities The Sunshine State is renowned as and research companies, the ETI sup-
and Interfaith Charities of South Lee, pro- one of the nation’s best for business and ports educational initiatives, enhances
vide help for community members in need. entrepreneurs. It has no personal income regional workforce and economic de-
Estero’s welcoming vibe is also extended tax, state-level ad valorem taxes, property velopment, and fosters collaboration
by clubs, nonprofit and fraternal organi- taxes on inventories, or ad valorem taxes on with higher education, government and
goods in transit. industry.
For information on business assistance
resources, see “Business Information & De-
mographics” in the Information Directory.
"I have been wearing hearing aids since DBoaarlrednCeeBrtaiflileedwD, oAcuto.Dr.of Audiology
2010. In all those years of working to try to “Darlene is very caring,
make my hearing better, I have never been thorough an-dChhealprlfeusl.”M
in an office that was so caring and 24810 Burnt Pine Drive, Suite 2
determined to provide me with excellent Bonita Springs, FL 34134
technology and expertise. Dr. Darlene
Ballew made this possible for me and if 239.221.0610
you or anyone you love has a hearing
challenge, I highly recommend you give her 2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 17
office a call! They are very friendly and
will make you feel welcome!
Thank you!" ~ Linda W.
"I had not realized how much of everyday
life I had been missing until I was tested
and matched to hearing aids that gave me
so many of life's little joys back. The
sound of the wind through the palm trees,
the crunch of grass under my feet, the soft
little sound of joy my Pom makes when
I hug him! Most of all I now hear my
turn signals so my poor wife does not
have to remind it is on every time!!
Thank you Darlene & Bill.
Owe you so much!!" ~ G.M.
www.HearingCareSWFL.com
WELCOME DR. MICHAEL MARTIN
President of Florida Gulf Coast University
Dr. Michael V. Martin tion to take a slightly different view as to One of your expectations includes
how we conduct our affairs. I am hoping a one billion dollar endowment,
On February 28, 2017, Dr. Michael that we will see the four-year graduation and $200 million a year in outside
V. Martin was unanimously rate rise from the current 22% to well into research funding…wow!
selected by the Florida Gulf Coast the 30’s,and in that process, the six year
University Board of Trustees to become or less rates will rise from 46% to about “Yes, it’s a big bite. But when you think
the institution’s fourth President on July 1, 62%. There are two ways we can improve about it, we have now topped $100 million
2017. He came to FGCU from the Colo- the graduation rate. One is to simply work in endowments, so looking ahead 20 years,
rado State University System, most recently with students to make sure they get there if we just continue at our current pace,
serving as Chancellor Emeritus and Senior and the other is to raise the standards so with compounded returns on our current
Fellow following three years as Chancel- that you will get nothing but students who endowment, we would be over a quarter of
lor. Prior positions, to name a few, include will succeed all the way. FGCU is going to a billion already. Project that out with our
Chancellor of Louisiana State University; be a ladder, not a filter. very strong portfolio and we know there is
President of New Mexico State University going to be growth just by continuing to
and Vice President for Agriculture and “I believe in identifying students invest appropriately.”
Natural Resources at University of Florida. regionally who are clearly bright enough
Dr. Martin received his Ph.D. in but may come in with financial, cultural or “On an average, our current alumni
applied economics from the University of educational shortcomings and give them a are only 33 years old, and if you were a
Minnesota in 1977. His areas of specializa- real chance at real success in an expeditious freshman in the very first class, you are
tion are prices, international trade, public way for a degree from FGCU.” only 45 years old. So as our current 28,000
policy, transportation and business logistics. alumnus base matures and succeeds and if
Can you expound on your academic we continue to build relationships with the
FGCU is one of the fastest growing vision? communities that have already named a lot
universities in the country. Do you ex- of buildings around here, I am convinced
pect to continue this level of expansion? “I believe that we certainly want to that a billion dollar endowment is not out
play on the big stage and be recognized of the question. That would cure a lot of
“We will continue to grow, but at a nationally and internationally for some problems we have with respect to state
slower pace, concentrating our energies areas of excellence. I also believe that we funding and affordability.
on the continued improvement of quality have a fundamental responsibility to give
rather than quantity. We want to grow our local students a chance at a degree and a “In the area of research, I think as we
enrollment by retaining students instead of life that will allow them to stay locally if identify three to five core areas of excellence
recruiting them, creating better outcomes they choose, while prospering economically that are interdisciplinary and are related
with respect to graduation rates. We want and contributing socially to the fabric of to the unique part of the world that we’re
to create new programs in education, Southwest Florida.” in, we can attract extramural funding over
research and community engagement that time that will give us an applied research
reflect the unique part of the world we live “While we are delighted to take as presence of note, and it will be funded be-
in and the unique set of needs that we can many students from out of the area as we cause we are in a unique place and we will
help serve in the process.”” can get, at the same time I really think that take advantage of it.”
this place can be a springboard for regional
“We are now a mature enough institu- students to acquire an education that will Agriculture, fresh water and envi-
make their lives better, and in the process, ronment are buzzwords that appear
make others’ lives better.” again and again in your interviews…
“We are considering expanding our “Just look at the unique nature of the
nursing program because Lee Health and place and its cultural dynamics. It encom-
other health care providers in the region passes the Seminole Indians on one side to
rely heavily on us. We are a big provider the wealthy corporate retirees in Naples with
of teachers to the region and we will try a variety of people in between. Here is this
to continue to be really strong in the living laboratory of human beings, a fragile
educational fields because nearby Hendry ecosystem, a freshwater system, a saltwater
and Glades Counties, for example, have system and a five-county agricultural system
a particularly hard time finding quality that in a normal year reaps two billion dol-
educators.” lars. All of those dynamics make this such an
interesting place to study, to learn from and
“All of those things play a part in the to use as a platform to teach.”
equation that you work on every day, and
hopefully we will be able to mark some “Florida has a unique, interesting nature
success along these lines and people will as a state, particularly this part of Florida as
take notice.”
18 www.EsteroChamber.org
a region. Let’s make sure that as we think “In my days in create a program for the sake of creating
about the next moments of this institution, high school football, a program that doesn’t provide legitimate,
it is related to what we can do that no one I never called a touchdown enjoyable and safe competition for the
else has the opportunity to do.” when the ball crossed the student athletes and a legitimate chance for
the institution to look excellent. I’d like to
Will we ever see football? three yard line. see us playing well at what we’re playing,
“Football…perhaps someday, but no If I have to choose between and we are. We are competing at a very
high level. When you produce a ballplayer
time soon for a variety of reasons. What the integrity of the like Chris Sale, among others, you have a
people don’t understand is that if we added degree and being loved, good program.”
a football team, we’d have to add at least
four more sports for Title IX. We would I’ll pass on the love.” What core values are non- negotiable?
have to go out and find an appropriate “I believe in diversity in all forms;
way to add four more women’s sports in athletes who might have been good football
which they could actively compete without players are playing other sports like soccer I believe in relentless commitment to
extensive travel time, added expense and and lacrosse. It is becoming increasingly excellence; I believe a degree is a degree.
time away from class to compensate for the difficult for programs to recruit enough I will only sign a diploma if a person has
number of players we have on a football players to build an excellent team. There completed a full degree here. So when I
team. So it’s not just about a football team, are arguably 40 really powerful football had to make the decision to push back the
it’s about the balance that not only Title programs and then there is everybody school year due to Hurricane Irma, It was
IX requires, but what I believe is truly else. I’m not sure I want to be everybody because I owed it to the students to get
important else. We would not get to an LSU level in what they deserved and what they paid
my lifetime and I do not believe I want to for…a full degree.”
“When I was at LSU, which has a
pretty powerful program, we discovered “In my days in high school football, I
even there that the game of football, in never called a touchdown when the ball
particular, does not have a large enough crossed the three yard line. If I have to
pool of good athletes to go around. Parents choose between the integrity of the degree
are concerned about injuries, and so many and being loved, I’ll pass on the love.”
Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU)
www.FGCU.edu
Student success is the first priority at cross country and soccer, plus baseball, Art graces the campus throughout.
FGCU, a dynamic institution that combines softball, swimming, diving and women’s 2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 19
academic excellence, research opportuni- and beach volleyball. In 2013, the men’s
ties, cultural impact, civic engagement and basketball team became the first-ever No.
environmental consciousness to create a 15 seed to advance to the Sweet 16 and
college experience students call “transforma- was dubbed Dunk City. In 2016, the
tive”. The university describes this as The Eagles headed to their second NCAA
FGCU Effect: “Inspiring those who then tournament.
inspire others.”
FGCU’s 800-acre campus—of which
FGCU offers undergraduate, graduate, 400 acres are restored and preserved wet-
doctorate and certificate degree programs lands and uplands—also serves as a cultural
through its College of Arts and Sciences, in- hub for the community, staging hundreds
cluding the Bower School of Music and the of concerts, lectures, plays and art shows
Arts; Lutgert College of Business; the Col- throughout the year.
lege of Education; U.A. Whitaker College
of Engineering; and the College of Health Lifelong learning is promoted through
Professions and Social Work. FGCU’s Renaissance Academy, which con-
ducts non-credit courses at centers in Char-
Working alongside their professors, stu- lotte, Collier and Lee counties. Off-campus
dents participate in a wide range of research centers also offer continuing education
projects in Southwest Florida. They also as- courses, and the Small Business Develop-
sist hundreds of area organizations through ment Center helps business owners launch
the university’s service-learning program and companies and hone business practices.
have contributed 2 million hours of com-
munity service since 1997. The university also focuses on develop-
ing technologies to promote environmental
FGCU student-athletes compete in the sustainability and renewable energy through
NCAA Division I Atlantic Sun Conference its Emergent Technologies Institute (see the
in men’s and women’s basketball, golf, tennis, ETI inset, page 17).
EXPLORE & DISCOVER
Hammond Stadium and the CenturyLink Sports Complex is home to the
Minnesota Twins spring training and the local Miracle Baseball team.
20 www.EsteroChamber.org
Enjoy nature, the arts,
fine dining and shopping
Area code is 239 unless noted.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Bowditch Point Regional Park
50 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach
Cultural organizations play an enriching, vibrant 229-1610 • Parking: $2/hour
role in Estero and include museums, galleries, sym-
phony orchestras, theater groups and world-class The beach here is renowned for its gentle slope
centers for the arts. and shallow water. The 17-acre park hugs Estero Bay
Artis-Naples and the Gulf. Amenities include restrooms, picnic
5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples tables, grills, a food and gift concession, hiking trails,
597-1900; www.ArtisNaples.org a handicap-accessible boardwalk and a 10-acre nature
preserve.
Artis—an epicenter for the visual and performing
arts—is home to the Naples Philharmonic and The Bowditch is an entry point for the Great Calusa
Baker Museum, a 30,000-square-foot art museum. Blueway Paddling Trail. The park is also a designated
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall Great Florida Birding Trail site.
8099 College Pkwy., Fort Myers Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
481-4849; www.BBMannPAH.com 11135 Gulfshore Drive, Naples
597-6196 • www.FloridaStateParks.org
This popular performing arts hall hosts Broadway $6/vehicle; $4 single occupant vehicle; $2/pedestrian
shows, top-name stars, concerts, the Gulf Coast Sym-
phony and the Southwest Florida Symphony. This 166-acre wooded barrier island, separated
Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs from the mainland by mangrove marshes and tidal
Center for Visual Arts waters, is filled with wildlife and boasts one of the
26100 Old U.S. 41, Bonita Springs most pristine beaches in the world.
Center for Performing Arts
10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs Amenities include a nature trail and observation
495-8989; www.ArtCenterBonita.org tower; geocaching; a boat launch; restrooms and
showers; a concessionaire offering food, beverages and
The Center for Visual Arts offers classes for all canoe/kayak rentals and tours; and a large, shady pic-
ages and includes galleries and a gift shop on its nic area with grills. Beach wheelchairs can be reserved
10-acre campus. It features ongoing art exhibits and by calling ahead.
hosts major art festivals. The 29,000-square-foot Cen- Dog Beach Park
ter for Performing Arts hosts a film series and interna- 8800 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach
tional film festival, plus musical, theatrical, dance and 949-4615 • Free parking
comedic entertainment for all ages.
Estero Art League Well-behaved dogs can run free here. Owners
www.EsteroArtLeague.com must clean up after their pets (bags and trash cans are
provided). The park has a portable toilet and a doggie
The league offers classes, open painting work- shower station. Bring drinking water for yourself and
shops and shows during season and meets for open your dogs.
painting on Monday mornings from September to Lovers Key State Park
May at the Estero Community Center. 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach
Germain Arena 463-4588; www.FloridaStateParks.org
11000 Everblades Pkwy., Estero $8/vehicle; $2/bicyclist or on foot
948-7825; www.germainArena.com
A haven for wildlife, the park’s 712 acres include
Home to the Florida Everblades, a minor-league two miles of unspoiled beach, nature and bike trails,
hockey team (see page 26), Germain Arena also hosts accessible via a tram and boardwalk. Fishing and
year-round concerts and family entertainment. shelling are popular, and amenities include a picnic
area, concessionaire, wedding pavilion, restrooms and
BEACHES a boat ramp/canoe launch. Kayak tours and rentals
are available by calling 765-7788.
Southwest Florida’s beaches consistently rank Lynn Hall Memorial Park
among the nation’s finest, with miles of sugar-white 950 Estero Blvd. at Times Square
sand and warm Gulf waters. LeeTran trolleys and Fort Myers Beach
buses travel to local beaches; call 533-8726 or visit 463-4588 • Parking: $2/ hour
www.rideleetran.com for schedules. Get real-time
trolley arrivals on your cell phone at www.nextbus. A family favorite, this lively beach park offers a
com. Click on Find Your Next Bus, select Florida playground, licensed fishing pier, bait/gift shop and
and Fort Myers, and choose your stop from the drop- picnic huts. Times Square, a pedestrian mall with
down list, or text 41411nbus ftmyers 1235. trees and outdoor tables, brims with unique shops
Bonita Beach Park and restaurants.
27954 Hickory Blvd., Bonita Springs
949-4615 • Parking: $2/hour (Lee County parking DINING
stickers are not accepted.)
Southwest Florida entices visitors and residents
This family-friendly park has picnic shelters, alike with a range of palate-pleasing choices, from
restrooms and a sand volleyball court. Walk to water- just-caught local seafood to ethnic, Floribbean, Con-
sports rentals, food concessions and restaurants. tinental and classic American comfort food. For great
dining options, visit the “Restaurants” section in the
Membership Directory.
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 21
Photo courtesy of Lee Visitors and Conventions Bureau
Boardwalks through parks and preserves let you observe the local wildlife. Happehatchee Center.
community recreation center. (See page 14 for
ECO-EXPLORATIONS da. It hugs Estero’s western border and is home more details.)
to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles.
Southwest Florida, site of the majestic Canoe or kayak in the bay or on the Estero Everglades National Park
Everglades, is also home to several local, state River, or bike or hike the easy trails. Trail access: 305-242-7700; www.NPS.gov/Ever
and national parks and preserves that showcase Go west on Broadway off U.S. 41. Continue This largest subtropical wilderness in the
intriguing biodiversity. Hiking, biking and pad- past the FPL grid station for signs and parking. U.S. is also a World Heritage Site, International
dling trails and guided tours let you discover the Self-guided trail maps. $2 entry fee. Biosphere Reserve and a Wetland of Interna-
area’s wealth of flora and fauna. tional Importance. It encompasses more than
1.5 million acres that are home to alligators,
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary & Estero Community Park deer, bobcats, Florida panthers, and hundreds
Blair Audubon Visitor Center 9200 Corkscrew Palms Boulevard, Estero of other species of plants, birds and animals.
375 Sanctuary Road, Naples 498-0415; www.LeeParks.org The Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades
348-9151; Corkscrew.Audubon.org Every age and interest can find something City (695-3311), 90 minutes from Estero, has
Home to nearly 200 bird species, Cork- to enjoy at this huge 55-acre multipurpose park
screw is a designated National Audubon Society that includes lakes, sports fields and a large
sanctuary. A 2.25-mile boardwalk with shaded
benches showcases the largest old-growth Bald
Cypress forest in North America.
The center includes multimedia presenta-
tions, exhibits, nature-inspired gifts and a cafe
that serves fresh sandwiches and salads. Open
daily from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Last admission
is 4:30 p.m. Admission fee: $14/adult; $4/6 to
18 years old.
CREW Land & Water Trust
23998 Corkscrew Road, Estero
657-2253; www.CrewTrust.org
Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed’s
(CREW) 60,000 acres provide aquifer recharge,
natural flood protection, water purification
and preservation of wildlife habitat. Nearly 30
miles of hiking and biking trails, some allow-
ing leashed dogs, wind through pine flatwoods,
oak hammocks, a sawgrass marsh and a popash
slough. Visit the website for geocaching in-
formation, trail conditions and maps. Special
events take place throughout the year. (See Cal-
endar of Events on page 30.)
Estero Bay Preserve State Park Photo courtesy of Lee County Parks and Recreation
(Managed by Koreshan State Park)
992-0311
www.FloridaStateParks.org/Park/Estero-Bay
Sheltered by barrier islands, this lush haven
is the first aquatic preserve established in Flori-
22 www.EsteroChamber.org
Koreshan State Park HOGLUND FAMILY HEARING
AND AUDIOLOGY CENTERS
maps and exhibits. Guided boat cruises tra-
verse the Ten Thousand Islands and mangrove Voted BEST of SW Florida
wilderness. The Center is open from 9 a.m. to BEST Audiologist
4:30 p.m., mid-April through mid-November; BEST Tinnitus Treatment Center
and from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., mid-November BEST Hearing & Testing Center
through mid-April. BEST Place to Buy Hearing Aids
The Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail
533-7275; www.CalusaBlueway.com BONITA SPRINGS ESTERO
Birds and wildlife abound along this 190-
mile marked canoe and kayak trail that meanders Fifteen 8th Street 10020 Coconut Road, Suite 120
through Lee County’s scenic coastal waterways
and inland tributaries. The serene waters are suit- (Next to Royal Scoop (Brooks Town Center
able for first-time kayakers as well as seasoned Ice Cream) next to LabCorp)
paddlers, and detailed trail maps, information
and a smart phone app are available online. (239) 494-8651 (239) 494-8652
The Happehatchee Center
8791 Corkscrew Road, Estero BRING A FAMILIAR VOICE FOR SPEECH TESTING
992-5455; www.Happehatchee.org www.HoglundFamilyHearing.com
A five-acre sanctuary for peace and healing,
Happehatchee’s land and buildings are a Lee
County Historic Preservation Site. The center
offers workshops and programs throughout the
year, including yoga classes, concerts and heal-
ing workshops. Walk the pathways here for a
glimpse of old Florida’s rich ecosystem. Out of
respect for the land, public hours are limited;
call ahead for up-to-date information.
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
One Wildlife Drive, Sanibel
472-1100
www.FWQ.gov/Refuge/JN_Ding_Darling/
This world-renowned sanctuary, part of the
largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the
U.S., shelters more than 245 species of birds.
Drive, walk, bike or take a trolley along Wildlife
Drive, a five-mile stretch of coastal habitat. The
Visitor & Education Center offers displays, vid-
eos, interactive programs, volunteers to answer
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 23
Photo courtesy of College of Life
Mound Key
questions, and a Nature Gift Store. The refuge is $2/pedestrians, bicyclists (see “Calendar of The park is managed by Koreshan State
closed on Fridays. Entrance fee: $5/vehicle. Events” page 30). Park and is accessible only by water (public boat
Koreshan State Park Mound Key Archaeological State Park launches are available at Koreshan State Park
3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero 992-0311 and Lovers Key State Park). It has no facilities.
992-0311; www.FloridaStateParks.org/Koreshan www.FloridaStateParks.org/MoundKey No entrance fee.
The former site of a self-sufficient Utopian Framed in forests of mangrove trees, the Six-Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
community, Koreshan’s 100 acres include origi- shell mounds and ridges of Mound Key rise 7751 Penzance Boulevard, Fort Myers;
nal, restored buildings. Docents conduct narrat- more than 30 feet above the waters of Estero 533-7556; www.LeeParks.org
ed history tours and visitors can walk or bike the Bay. The highest point for miles around, this Glimpse “natural Florida” at this 2,500-
trails and fish, canoe or picnic along the scenic 125-acre island was created from centuries acre wetland ecosystem. Amenities include a
Estero River. Amenities include canoe rentals of shells, bones and pottery discarded by the 1.2-mile boardwalk trail with observation decks,
and a boat ramp. Koreshan also hosts concerts, Calusa Indians and is believed to have been their picnic/ shelter areas, restrooms, a Rock and
a Farmers’ Market and various events, Parking: cultural center. Stroll Garden and a Butterfly Garden. The Inter-
$5/vehicle; $4 single-occupant vehicles. pretive Center is Lee County’s first public, certi-
fied green building. Guided walks are available;
the current schedule is online. Parking: $1/hour
or $5/day.
College of Life Foundation
3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero
(Koreshan State Park)
992-2184; www.CollegeOfLifeFoundation.org
Certified kayak instructors offers daily hik-
ing and kayaking tours that combine ecology
and history.
SHOPPING &
DESIGN CENTERS
(Also visit “Business & Professional Services” and
“Retail” in the Membership Directory.)
Coconut Point
23106 Fashion Drive, Estero
(South Tamiami Trail & Coconut Road)
992-9966
www.ShopcoconutPoint.com
This picturesque open-air mall features more
than 140 stores, casual and upscale dining, and
a megaplex theater, all surrounded by lakes and
a boardwalk.
Miromar Design Center Gulf Coast Town Center
9903 Gulf Coast Main Street, Fort Myers
24 www.EsteroChamber.org
Miromar Outlets
(I-75 Exit 128 - Alico Road) Germain Arena
267-5107;www.GulfCoastTownCenter.com
A Main Street-style outdoor mall, the center
includes 19 anchor stores, more than 90 spe-
cialty shops, restaurants and a megaplex theater.
Miromar Design Center
10800 Corkscrew Road, Estero
(I-75, Exit 123)
390-5111
www.MiromarDesignCenter.com
Enjoy one-stop shopping at 45 home fur-
nishing stores that showcase everything related
to interior design. The center also offers design
referral services, a gourmet bistro, free WiFi,
design seminars and special events.
Miromar Outlets
10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero
(I-75, Exit 123)
948-3766; www.MiromarOutlets.com
A Mediterranean lakefront setting, covered
walkways and a Playland for kids make this
upscale center a family-favorite destination.
More than 140 top designer and brand-name
outlets nestle side-by-side with cafes and restau-
rants. Miromar presents a Friday Concert Series
from late October through the winter season
and hosts numerous special events throughout
the year.
SPORTS & RECREATION
Year-round sunshine and pleasant weather
translate to plenty of opportunities for outdoor
fun and spectator sports. (Also visit “Sports &
Recreation” in the Membership Directory.)
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 25
With all the courses available, golfers can find a course that is just right for them.
Courtesy of Kevin Bires BASEBALL summer family fun when the Miracle team, a GOLF
Class A Advanced Affiliate of the Minnesota
The Boston Red Sox Twins, runs the bases April through September. Southwest Florida, called the “Golf Course
JetBlue Park, 11581 Daniels Pkwy., Fort Myers The Minnesota Twins Capital of the World,” is home to courses
334-4700 or 877-REDSOX-9 CenturyLink Sports Complex, designed by many of the world’s leading golf
www.Boston.RedSox.mlb.com 14100 Ben C. Pratt/Six Mile Cypress Pkwy., architects. Some are private and open only to
www.SpringTrainingConnection.com Fort Myers; 1-800-33-TWINS members; others welcome the public during all
www.Minnesota.Twins.MLB.com or part of the year. Golfers must call ahead to
The Boston Red Sox visit JetBlue Park for reserve tee times and confirm green fees and cart
spring training in February and March. The Minnesota Twins also play ball in Febru- rental information. See the “Community” list-
The Fort Myers Miracle ary and March at the newly renovated Century- ings in the Membership Directory (page 42).
Hammond Stadium, CenturyLink Sports Complex Link Sports Complex. Golf Instruction
14100 Ben C. Pratt/Six Mile Cypress Pkwy., Mike Calbot International Golf Academy
Fort Myers BIKING Old Corkscrew Golf Club
768-4210; www.MiracleBaseball.com 17320 Corkscrew Road, Estero
An impressive network of well-marked bike 482-0900; www.GolfDoctorUSA.com
Minor league baseball provides plenty of paths traverse Southwest Florida and
meander through Estero’s safe and scenic Mike Calbot is a professional golf swing
Florida Everblades minor league hockey team neighborhoods. See the map on page 56. analyst and master golf instructor. The school
offers learning experiences for all levels of golf-
BOATING/ ers, including advanced player-development
FISHING CHARTERS & programs.
CANOE/KAYAK RENTALS
HOCKEY
Explore our waterways, islands and
beaches on a guided shelling or sightsee- The Florida Everblades
ing excursion, opt for a half- or full-day Germain Arena
fishing charter, or rent a canoe or kayak. 11000 Everblades Pkwy., Estero
Visit the Membership Directory (pages 948-7825; www.FloridaEverblades.com
54 and 55 for local options.)
Estero River Outfitters Germain Arena is home to the Florida Ev-
20991 South Tamiami Trail, Estero erblades (East Coast Hockey League). The team
992-4050; plays a full schedule of home games when they
www.EsteroRiverOutfitters.com take to the ice from October to April.
Since 1977, this historic location ICE SKATING
has offered kayak and canoe rentals and
sales, a full fishing tackle shop and live Germain Arena
bait. They also sell paddle boards and 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero
paddle gear. 948-7825; www.SkateEverblades.com
Public skating and hockey and skating les-
sons are offered year-round on Germain Arena’s
twin rinks. Skate rentals are available.
26 www.EsteroChamber.org
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 27
ADVENTURES FOR EVERYONE Photo courtesy of the College of Life
Outside Adventures
Estero’s great outdoors is a wonderful learning laboratory for
the entire family.
Adventure seekers can enjoy the thrill of the hunt at Lovers Key
State Park (page 21) for a morning or afternoon of geocaching. This
outdoor treasure hunt uses GPS devices to navigate to a specific set of
coordinates. Once there, the search to find the hidden container, or
geocache, begins!
History buffs can accompany a guide at Koreshan State Park (page
24) for Saturday or Sunday morning strolls through the park’s gardens
and intriguing structures. Learn local historic lore while identifying
native and exotic plants. After the walking tour, meander the riverside
trail where birds and wildlife are abundant and bobcats, foxes, river
otters, alligators and manatees are occasionally sighted.
Join a park volunteer at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park (page
21) for a fun, interactive beachcombing adventure (free with park
admission). Uncover beach treasures, and learn about seashells, sea
creatures and tidal movements. Treasures of a different sort await
discovery at Delnor-Wiggins’ geocache sites; visit www.Geocaching.com
for location details.
In nearby Bonita Springs, explore Everglades Wonder Gardens, a
3.5-acre botanical jungle filled with alligators, plants and rescued birds and animals.
More sunbathing alligators and dozens of species of spectacular waterbirds can be spotted at
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge (page 23). Bring drinking water, binoculars,
and cameras, and rent bikes for a full or half-day at nearby Tarpon Bay Explorers (www.
tarponbayexplorers.com). Start your day at the Visitor & Education Center, where you
can pick up a brochure guide to the refuge. Then pedal along Wildlife Drive, marveling at
clusters of roseate spoonbills, snowy egrets and stately blue herons.
Travel by bicycle to sightsee the Estero area thanks to our extensive network of
sidewalks and bike paths (see the map on page 52). Bring drinking water, snacks and
sunscreen. No bikes? No problem! The Trek Bicycle Store (www.TrekBikesFlorida.com)
at the Coconut Point Mall rents bikes that come with complimentary helmets, bags,
locks and local maps.
Soft sand, a gentle surf, a jungle-gym playground and shaded picnic tables all
add up to beach-time fun for every age at Lynn Hall Memorial Park (page 21.) The
licensed fishing pier is a must for young anglers. Pick up bait at the park’s gift shop,
and tackle and poles at the pier’s concession, Rudy’s Treasure Chest (463-3333).
For a memorable canoe or kayak adventure, visit Estero River Outfitters (page
26) and paddle down the Estero River Canoe Trail. It winds through subtropical
hammocks and mangrove swamps where you’ll be wrapped in the sounds of
nature and amazed by sightings of yellow-crowned night herons, anhingas and
cormorants. Experienced paddlers may want to stop at Mound Key Archaeological
State Park for a picnic lunch or a short walk on the nature trails.
Indoor Adventures
Take a break from the sun at a variety of Estero’s indoor venues. From
karate and martial arts to table tennis and tai chi, classes and activities abound at the Estero
Recreation Center (page 14). The center includes a gymnasium,
video game station, computer lab and fitness center. The center’s after-school
Club Rec program provides fun and learning for kids with organized games, activities, clubs,
sports, crafts and homework time.
The entire family can lace up and whirl around the ice skating rink at Germain Arena (page
26) while listening to the weekly Top 20 tunes. A disco ball and laser show add to the fun. Rental
skates are available in sizes 8 (child) through 12 (adult).
No one can resist bargain shopping destinations, and Miromar Outlets (page 25) offers the
best deals on designer clothing, accessories and places to eat. Keep the younger set occupied at the
MundoMAX Playland, a covered kids’ play area where free crafts activities take place from 10 a.m.
to 12 p.m. every Wednesday.
It’s never too early to cultivate an appreciation of the arts. The Centers for the Arts of
Bonita Springs (page 21) hosts gallery exhibitions and youth theater presentations throughout the
year. Residents benefit from a full program of visual and performing arts classes, workshops and
summer camps specifically designed for youngsters and teens.
School-age kids, smartphones in hand, will be transported in time when they see the
circa-1904 Estero Creek School House (page 29), located in the Estero Community Park. The
learning environment was quite different then using writing slates and you’ll even see a dunce
chair. Next door, wander through another world at the “Cottage,” where photos and artifacts
portray early 20th-century life. Displays are provided by the Estero Historical Society.
28 www.EsteroChamber.org
Moving the original house to the current location
The Estero Historical Society
Honoring the Past
Founded in 1999 by Estero resident Mimi
Straub (1912-2013), the Estero Historical
Society is dedicated to teaching and preserving
the history of Estero. The society’s efforts are
focused on securing a rich, historical legacy for
future generations and a strong sense of com-
munity identity for the Village of Estero.
The Society is headquartered in the restored
1906 Hall-Hanson-Collier House, which was
relocated to its current location in Estero Com-
munity Park in 2009. Open to the public, the
“Cottage” is filled with historic photographs,
artifacts and early 20th-century furnishings.
The Cottage is open to visitors from 1 to 3
p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
(call 272-1911 to confirm).
Next door is another historic building, the
1904 Estero Creek School House, which was also
relocated in 2009. The society has restored the
old school house and
turned it into a mu-
seum, complete with
antique school desks,
so that today’s young-
sters can experience
what grammar school
was like for students
100 years ago.
Volunteer docents
provide intriguing
details about Estero’s Mimi Straub
colorful past, and
maps, books and other items are available for
sale. A delicious top-seller is the Society’s fabled
mango chutney, concocted and jarred by mem-
bers and volunteers using a secret recipe created
by late Estero pioneer Edith Trebell, who once
owned a jelly plant in town. The savory melange
of mangos, onions, raisins, ginger, brown sugar,
salt and spices was purchased in large quantities
by the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City during
the 1930s.
The society has also published Early Estero,
a book documenting Estero’s history. Volunteers
continue to archive information about the area’s
past by cataloging papers and oral histories.
Straub’s legacy is carried on today by active
members and volunteers who help preserve a
“sense of place” and the spirit of Old Estero via
outreach initiatives: meetings with programs; a
monthly newsletter; tours and field trips; and
several annual events that combine history, fun,
delectable food and fellowship. Visit the website
for public meeting details and more information.
Estero Historical Society
9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero
(inside Estero Community Park)
239-272-1911
www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 29
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Area code is 239 unless noted.
SPORTS & FITNESS
n Watch the Boston Red Sox run their spring
training bases from late February through March
at JetBlue Park at Fenway South, in Fort Myers.
334-4700 or 877-REDSOX9; www.RedSox.com.
n The Minnesota Twins also play ball in
February and March at the newly renovated
CenturyLink Sports Complex in Fort Myers.
1-800-33-TWINS; www.TwinsBaseball.com.
n Summer means Fort Myers Miracle baseball,
when this Class A Advanced Affiliate team of the
Minnesota Twins pounds the diamond at the
CenturyLink Sports Complex, April through
September. 768-4210; www.MiracleBaseball.com.
n Fast-paced professional hockey hits the ice at
Germain Arena when the Florida Everblades,
an East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) team,
play 36 home games from October through
April. 948-7825 or 1-800-745-3000;
www.FloridaEverblades.com.
n Practice yoga in peaceful surroundings at
Koreshan State Park each Sunday at 9 a.m. All
levels are welcome and some mats are provided;
bring a water bottle. 992-0311;
www.FloridaStateParks.org/Koreshan.
NATURE An outdoor concert at Estero Community Park n Browse the produce, buy some native plants,
n The Calusa Blueway Monthly Speakers n Art shows and classes, exhibits, films, con- grab a bite to eat and relax at a picnic table under
Series includes topics of interest to paddlers, certs, live theater and special events fill the cal- moss-lined trees at the Koreshan Farmers’
photographers, and nature and local history lov- endar year-round at the Center for Performing Market, held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every
ers. Held at 6:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of Arts and the Center for Visual Arts in Bonita Sunday at Koreshan State Park. 992-0311.
the month from December to March (except Springs. National art festivals are held in January, www.FloridaStateParks.org/Koreshan.
January, held on the 10th) at the Wa-Ke Hatchee February and March. Call or visit online for a full n The Coconut Point Farmers Market offers
Recreation Center, in South Fort Myers. 533- schedule. 495-8989; www.ArtCenterBonita.org. fresh, local market staples and handcrafts each
7275 or 533-7474; www.Calusablueway.com. n Top entertainers and recording artists appear Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., October
n Enjoy guided hikes, family nature walks and at Germain Arena. Visit the website for event through April, at Coconut Point Mall. 992-9966;
birding expeditions along the three trail systems and ticket information. www.GermainArena.com. www.ShopCoconutPoint.com;
at CREW Land & Water Trust. A concert n Live music fills the air at Koreshan State www.BuyLocalLee.com.
and silent eco-auction enliven CREW’s annual Park most Saturdays and Sundays, January - n Koreshan Sunday Farmer’s Market: Join
fundraiser. 657-2253; www.CrewTrust.org. March at 1 p.m. in the Historic Art Hall, home us in the historic settlement of Koreshans every
n The College of Life Foundation offers daily to an 1885 Steinway piano. 992-0311; Sunday 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Our Farmer’s Market
kayaking tours on the scenic Estero River, along www.FloridaStateParks.org/Koreshan. offers local and organic produce, fresh seafood
Estero Bay, and to Mound Key Archeological n The Southwest Florida Symphony, and dips, unique crafts, local honey, native
State Park. All tour guides are CPR-certified which debuted in 1961, performs a series of plants, handcrafted jewelry, hot crepes and BBQ,
kayak instructors. Naturalist-guided hiking tours Masterworks, Pops and Small Stage Symphonies beautiful art, and cool gifts! A market pass is $1.
are also available. Reservations required. 992- each season. 418-1500; www.SWFLSO.org. 992-0311; www.FloridaStateParks.org/Koreshan.
2184; www.CollegeOfLifeFoundation.org. FARMERS’ MARKETS SHOPPING
n Lovers Key State Park's year-round programs n Fresh local produce and other goodies await n Special events and family-friendly entertain-
include guided beach walks, estuary tours, and buyers at the Estero United Methodist Church ment take place throughout the year at area
fishing and birding clinics. 463-4588; Farmers’ Market. held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., shopping malls. Call or go online for the latest
www.FloridaStateParks.org/Park/Lovers-Key. Tuesdays, November through April, on the information. Coconut Point (992-9966;
corner of Lords Way and U.S. 41. 992-5516; www.ShopCoconutPoint.com); Gulf Coast Town
ART, CULTURE www.EsteroUMC.com.
& ENTERTAINMENT
n The Estero Art League meets for Open
Painting each Monday and Thursday until 3
p.m. January - March, at the Estero Community
Center. Various classes are also available. 498-
5216; www.EsteroArtLeague.com.
30 www.EsteroChamber.org
Center (267-5107; www.GulfCoastTownCenter. Creek School are open to visitors from 1 to 3 February 2018
com); and Miromar Outlets (948-3766; p.m., Monday, Wednesday and Friday, showcas- n 3 & 4 - Ghost Walks at Koreshan State
www.MiromarOutlets.com). ing exhibits and photos of Estero’s early days. Park continue (see preceding listing).
EDUCATION 272-1911; www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com. Reservations required. 992-0311.
n South County Regional Library programs www.FloridaStateParks.org/Koreshan
for adults, kids, teens and families include every- January 2018 n 10-11 - Bonita Springs National Art Festival
thing from informative exhibits and reading ses- n 6-7 - Estero Fine Art Show at Gulf Coast at Riverside Park in downtown Bonita is a juried
sions to puppet shows. 533-4400; Town Center draws top artists and is juried fine arts and fine crafts event that attracts national
www.LeeLibrary.net. by a team of art professionals. The event and international artists. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
n The Friends of South County Regional Li- includes art displays and demonstrations run 495-8989; www.ArtCenterBonita.org.
brary hold used book sales February 23, 24 and throughout both days. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m on n 10-18 - The Edison Festival of Light held in
26. The group also hosts author luncheons and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. downtown Fort Myers, honors one of Southwest
adult and children's programs. 2 p.m. concerts 941-755-3088; www.HotWorks.org. Florida’s most famous resident: Thomas Alva Edi-
will be presented on February 10, March 10 and n 13-14 - Bonita Springs National Art Fes- son. Food, music, crafts, fun run, car show and
April 14. Call or go online for current informa- tival at Riverside Park in downtown Bonita more throughout the celebration. The Grand Pa-
tion. 533-4400; www.FriendsOf SCRL.org. is a juried fine arts and fine crafts event that rade, the Southeast’s largest night parade, begins
HISTORY attracts national and international artists. 10 at 7 p.m. on the 17th (visit website for parade
n Koreshan State Park Guided a.m. to 5 p.m. 495-8989; route). www.EdisonFestival.org.
Historic Tours take place January – March: www.ArtCenterBonita.org. n 17-18 - The 12th Annual Coconut Point Art
Wednesday-Sunday at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.; n 25-29 - Bonita Springs International Festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at
April – December: Saturday and Sunday at 10:00 Film Festival presents more than 70 narrative, Coconut Point Mall. Free admission. Browse the
a.m. only. Explore the 19th century religious Ko- documentary, animation and short films from fine art and enjoy music and more at this nation-
reshan settlement, its structures, and gardens. Join around the world, complemented by work- ally top-rated event. 992-9966;
our guided walking tours and learn about these shops, demonstrations and Q&A sessions with www.ShopCoconutPoint.com.
idealistic pioneers. The walking tour is about an filmmakers, writers, directors and actors. 495- n 24 - CREW Concert & Silent Eco-Auction
hour and a half. Tickets for guided tours can be 8989; www.ArtCenterBonita.org. showcases live entertainment and unique eco-
purchased at the Ranger Station. n 26 - Ghost Walks at Koreshan State Park adventures. Held at Riverside Park in downtown
992-0311; www.FloridaStateParks.org/Koreshan. are held at 6:45, 7, 7:15, 7:30, 7:45 and 8 p.m. Bonita Springs 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. 657-5223;
n The Estero Historical Society’s (EHS) ) re- The guided tours with actors in period costumes www.CrewTrust.org.
stored and authentically furnished Hanson-Hall- recount history and fascinating tales by moon- n February 22 - March 4 - The Annual South-
Collier House (The Cottage) and 1904 Estero light and luminaries. Reservations required. west Florida & Lee County Fair, includes ex-
992-0311. www.FloridaStateParks.org/Koreshan. hibits, entertainment and lots of fun for all ages.
543-8368; www.SWFLCFair.com.
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 31
n 24 - The 15th Annual Burrowing Owl Fes- Estero Chamber Golf Tournament n 7 - Calusa Palooza - Bring your Kayak,
tival, held at Rotary Park Environmental Center, Canoe, or SUP for this American Canoe associa-
in Cape Coral, includes exhibits, guided nature Browse the beautiful examples of vintage and tion sanctioned race. The course will offer a 4 or
walks, crafts for kids, and bus tours to local owl contemporary quilts while gathering advice on 8 mile option and a free one mile Calusa Kids’
burrows for a glimpse of these captivating, pint- how to care for and preserve them. Race (12 and under). Launch at the Koreshan
sized birds. The event is sponsored by the Cape 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 992-0311. State Park and race on the beautiful Estero river;
Coral Friends of Wildlife. 980-2593; www.FloridaStateParks.org/Koreshan. races begin at 9:00. Registration includes: park
www.CCFriendsOfWildlife.org. entrance fee, lone-sleeved race shirt, and lunch.
April 2018 All race proceeds benefit our summer camp for
March 2018 n TBA - Celebrate Estero is a day-long, cham- at-risk youth. Registration: https://PaddleGuru.
n 3 - Classic Car & Craft Show at Koreshan ber-sponsored event that features family fun for com/Races/CalusaPalooza2018.
showcases pre-1980 vehicles and arts, crafts and all ages including the ever-popular Chili and Rib n 19 - The Estero Historical Society Annual
food vendors. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 992-0311. Cook-Off! Local businesses, civic organizations, Tea is a popular fundraising event. This year’s
n 3 - Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, schools, church groups, fire districts, and the Lee theme is “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” from
Southwest Florida raises funds to research and County Sheriff’s office are all in attendance at this The Wizard of Oz and is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
combat breast cancer. Race begins at 8 a.m. at popular community-wide event. Held at Miro- at The Club at Grandezza, 11481 Grande Oak
Coconut Point Mall in Estero. 498-0016; mar Outlets.948-7990; www.EsteroChamber.org. Boulevard, Estero. Call 272-1911 for tickets and
www.KomenSWFL.org. reservations. www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com
n 3 - Southwest Florida Reading Festival is a n 21 - Bonita Springs/Estero Relay for Life
fun-packed day of discovery and creativity with (American Cancer Society). This team fundrais-
family activities and celebrity authors sharing the ing event, held from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at River-
inside scoop on their latest books. 10 a.m. to 4 side Park – Bonita Springs, raises funds for cancer
p.m. at Fort Myers Regional Library Campus, research, celebrates survivors, and honors those
1651 Lee St., Fort Myers. www.ReadFest.org. who have been lost to the illness. For more infor-
n 3-4 - Bonita Springs National Art Festival mation, contact the ACS local offices: 936-1113
at Riverside Park in downtown Bonita is a (Fort Myers); 261-0337 (Naples).
juried fine arts and fine crafts event that attracts n 21 - The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wild-
national and international artists. 10 a.m. to life Refuge on Sanibel Island will celebrate the
5 p.m. 495-8989; www.ArtCenterBonita.org. 48th anniversary of Earth Day in partnership
n 10-11 - Fort Myers Beach Lions Club with “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of
Shrimp Festival & Parade offers tempting treats, the Refuge (DDWS). From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.,
a crafts expo and family entertainment. the day’s highlights include an earth-friendly
www.FortMyersBeachShrimpFestival.com. Family Story & Craft out of recycled materials
n 17 & 18 - The Antique Engine & Quilt and the free showing of a relevant film. Guests
Show at Koreshan State Park showcases antique can also attend free educational programs and
engines, tractors and other farm equipment meet Bagzilla, a “bag monster” dressed in the
on display throughout the historic settlement. average person’s annual plastic bag consumption.
472-1100; www.DingDarlingSociety.org.
Moe Auditorium & Film Center is one of two centers for Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs.
32 www.EsteroChamber.org
A performance by the Southwest Florida Symphony Orchestra
May 2018 October 2018 n TBA - Trick or Treat! Family Halloween
n 11 - “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford’s Tarpon n 14-20 - “Ding” Darling Days’ Family events take place at local malls and the Koreshan
Invitational This seventh annual “catch, release, Fun Day on Sunday, Oct. 14, kicks off a Historic Site. Call for details:
and care” tournament is based at Doc Ford’s week of eco-activities with all-free refuge tram Miromar Outlets (948-3766)
Rum Bar & Grille on Fisherman’s Wharf in tours, live wildlife presentations, hot dogs, Gulf Coast Town Center (267-5107)
Fort Myers Beach to benefit the J.N. “Ding” kids crafts, archery lessons, and other family Coconut Point Mall (992-9966)
Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Anglers vie activities. Discounted birding, boating, tram, Koreshan Historic Site (992-0311)
for 100-percent purse cash awards for the most and kayaking activities fill the week. The 30th
tarpon caught. 239-292-0566; annual celebration ends on Saturday, Oct. 20, November 2018
www.DingDarlingTarponTourney.org with Conservation Art Day, where Federal n 17-18 - Estero Fine Art Show at Miromar
n TBD - Disney on Ice presents “Worlds Duck Stamp Winners, a photo contest, artists, Design Center draws top artists and is juried by
of Enchantment” at Germain Arena. Rev up cartooning, and a refuge photography tram tour a team of art professionals. The event includes art
for non-stop fun with four favorite Disney highlight a day devoted to Jay Norwood Darling’s displays and demonstrations run throughout both
stories: Disney•Pixar’s Cars, Ariel and The Little legacy as the first duck stamp artist and a Pulitzer days. Location TBD - 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Satur-
Mermaid, Disney•Pixar Toy Story, and the Prize-winning political cartoonist. 472-1100; day and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday;
wintry world of Arendelle and Frozen. High- www.DingDarlingDays.com 941-755-3088.
speed stunts, exceptional skating and special n TBA - The 8th Annual Estero Chamber Golf
effects as only Disney can do. Tournament is an enjoyable Chamber fundraiser December 2018
www.GermainArena.com; www.DisneyOnIce.com. and an opportunity to network with Chamber n TBA - Light Up Estero heralds the holiday
and community members. 948-7990; season with a tree-lighting ceremony that begins
June 2018 www.EsteroChamber.org. at 5 p.m. at Estero Community Park. Call the
n 15 - Annual Estero Chamber of n TBA - Estero Community Park Yard Sale Estero Chamber for details: 948-7990;
Commerce Members’ Luncheon. We will features local residents selling their treasures at the www.EsteroChamber.org.
also reveal the Person, Business and Volunteer park. 498-0415. n TBA - Estero Chamber Holiday Party is a
of the Year Awards. Business and community festive event. Come enjoy the holidays with all
members are invited to celebrate the year’s Business Expo your friends in our growing community. 948-
achievements and honorees at the luncheon. 7990; www.EsteroChamber.org.
Reservations required. 948-7990; n TBA - Holiday Celebrations and events
www.EsteroChamber.org. spread good cheer throughout the month at
local shopping venues. Contact them for details,
July 2018 including when Santa is scheduled to appear:
n 4 - Independence Day is celebrated • Miromar Outlets, 948-3766;
throughout Estero, with special sidewalk sales www.MiromarOutlets.com
and other events at Miromar Outlets, Coconut • Gulf Coast Town Center, 267-5107;
Point Mall and Gulf Coast Town Center. www.GulfCoastTownCenter.com
• Coconut Point Mall, 992-9966;
www.ShopCoconutPoint.com.
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 33
INFORMATION
Area code for all numbers is 239 unless noted. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1.
THE VILLAGE OF ACCOMMODATIONS ECONOMIC
ESTERO DEVELOPMENT
(See “Tourism & Travel”
www.Estero-Fl.gov.com in the Membership Directory.) Lee County Economic Development
Estero was an unincorporated area of Chamber of Commerce of Southwest Florida . . . . . . . . 338-3161
Lee County until it voted to become its Estero Chamber of Commerce 2201 Second Street, Ste. 500
own village in 2014, making it South- Visitors Center & Office . . . . . . 948-7990 Fort Myers, FL 33901
west Florida’s ninth municipality. Estero’s 10600 Chevrolet Way, Suite 101 www.LeeCountyBusiness.com
first village election was held on March Estero, FL 33928 #WhereBusinessIsTrending
3, 2015, and the first Village Council Mail: P.O. Box 588, Estero, FL 33929
meeting was held on March 17, 2015. www.EsteroChamber.org Works to improve the overall business
The newly formed Village of Estero Hours: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Monday-Friday environment in Lee County by providing
operates under a Council-Manager form Provides essential visitor and seasonal or free, confidential services for local,
of government, comprising seven council permanent relocation information online domestic and international businesses
members elected at large from each of and in print. This information is focused seeking assistance with location or
seven districts. The Council members in on area attractions, cultural venues, dining, expansion.
turn elect a Mayor and Vice Mayor from accommodations, recreational opportuni-
their membership and appoint a Village ties and health and educational amenities. EDUCATION
Manager as the chief administrative of-
ficer of the Village. The Council also ap- (See “Education” in the
points a Village Attorney, Assistant Vil- Membership Directory)
lage Manager and Village Clerk. Council
members serve four-year terms, with CLERK OF COURTS Lee County School District
elections held every two years. General Information . . . . . . . . . 334-1102
Information and directions . . . . . 533-5000 2855 Colonial Blvd.
Village of Estero Jury duty questions . . . . . . . . . . 533-9153 Fort Myers, FL 33966
Administrative Offices www.leeclerk.org www.LeeSchools.net
9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, 2nd Floor
Estero, Florida 33928 Marriage licenses, passport services, The Student Assignment Department
Email: [email protected] domestic violence support services, child handles all school registrations.
support collection and disbursement, traf-
Phone: 221-5035 fic citation payments and small claims as- Call 337-8247 or visit
Fax: 494-5343 sistance. Go online for locations and hours. www.LeeSchools.net/Student-Assignment
Mayor • Pinewoods Elementary School 947-7500
Jim Boesch DRIVER’S LICENSE 11900 Stoneybrook Golf Drive, Estero
& TAGS • Three Oaks Middle School . . . 267-5757
Vice-Mayor. . . . . . . . . . . . Bill Ribble 18500 Three Oaks Pkwy., Fort Myers
Village Manager. . . . . Steven Sarkozy Lee County Tax Collector . . . . . 533-6000 • Estero High School . . . . . . . . . 947-9400
Assistant Village 25987 S. Tamiami Trail, Ste. 112, 21900 River Ranch Road, Estero
Bonita Springs, FL 25987
Manager. . . . . . . . . Kyle Coleman www.LeeTC.com Adult & Career Education
Village Attorney . . . . . . Burt Saunders Lee County Public Schools Adult &
Finance Director. . . . Lisa Griggs Pace Registration, tag and title services, and Career Education . . . . . . . . . . . 334-1102
Director of Community disability permits. New Florida residents www.LeeSchools.net/ace
must register vehicles within 10 days of the Lifelong Learning Classes . . . . . . 939-6310
Development. . . . . . Mary Gibbs owner either becoming employed, placing High School Career Education . . 334-1102
Village Clerk. . . . . . . . . Kathleen Hall children in a public school or establishing
Communications residency. Visit www.GatherGoGet.com
for documentation requirements.
Specialist . . . . . Marilyn Edwards
Village Council Florida Department of Highway Safety Special Centers
and Motor Vehicles Fort Myers Technical College . . 334-4544
District 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bill Ribble Customer Service Center . . 1-850-617-2000 www.FortMyersTech.edu
District 2. . . . . . . . . . Howard Levitan 15680 Pine Ridge Road, 3800 Michigan Ave., Fort Myers
District 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jon McLain South Fort Myers, FL 33908 . . . 533-6000 Cape Coral Technical College . 574-4440
District 4. . . . . . . . . . . Katy Errington www.FLHSMV.gov www.CapeCoralTech.edu
District 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jim Boesch 360 Santa Barbara Blvd. N., Cape Coral
District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nick Batos An out-of-state driver’s license that is not Southwest Florida Public Service
District 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jim Wilson expired beyond 30 days can be converted Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 334-4544
without a written or road test, but a vision
test is required. Road tests by appointment
only. Note: It is illegal to text while driving
in Florida.
34 www.EsteroChamber.org
San Carlos Park Fire District Station
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 267-7525
19591 Ben Hill Griffin Parkway
Fort Myers, FL 33913
www.SanCarlosFire.org
HEALTH CARE
(See “Health & Medical Care”
in the Membership Directory.)
Post Office on Three Oaks Parkway Hospitals, Urgent Care
& Walk-in Clinics
www.SWFPSA.org Keiser University . . . . . . . . . . . . 277-1336 Bonita Community Health Center
4312 Michigan Ave., Fort Myers 9100 Forum Corporate Pkwy., (BCHC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 949-1050
Colleges & Universities Fort Myers, FL 33905 3501 Health Center Boulevard
Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) www.KeiserUniversity.edu Bonita Springs, FL 34135
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 590-1000 www.BonitaHealthCenter.com
10501 FGCU Boulevard S. Regionally accredited, Keiser offers more
Fort Myers, FL 33965 than 100 certificates and associate, bachelor’s, Urgent-care walk-in clinic, compre-
www.FGCU.edu master’s, specialist and doctoral degrees. hensive outpatient diagnostics, imaging
Other Schools services, same-day surgery, employee health
FGCU offers undergraduate and gradu- Mike Calbot International Golf Studio & services, pain management and physical
ate degree programs through its College School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 482-0900 therapy.
of Arts and Sciences, including the Bower 17320 Corkscrew Road
School of Music and the Arts; Lutgert Col- Estero, FL 33928 Estero Medical Center . . . . . . . 333-2273
lege of Business; College of Education; www.GolfDoctorUSA.com 10201 Arcos Avenue
U.A. Whitaker College of Engineering; and Estero, FL 33928
the College of Health Professions and So- Private instruction, clinics, seminars, www.EsteroMedical.com
cial Work, including the School of Nursing. lectures, schools and golf travel trips. Golf
Digest named Calbot as Best Teacher in A multi-specialty physician alliance that
The Lutgert College of Business includes Florida for 2013-2014. includes family medical care, an urgent
several faculty-led research/consultative New Horizons of SW Florida . . 948-4146 care center, a sleep disorder center, physi-
institutes that support the region’s business 25300 Bernwood Drive cal therapy, pain management, radiology,
community through focuses on entrepre- Bonita Springs, FL 34135 dermatology, ear/nose/throat and allergy,
neurship, technical innovation, real estate www.NewHorizonsOfSWFL.org neurology, obstetrics/gynecology and or-
development and finance, and regional eco- thopedics. Visit the website for physician
nomic research. A non-profit organization dedicated names, specialties and phone numbers.
to helping at-risk children and teens by
FGCU’s Small Business Development providing after-school tutoring and Lee Health
Center (www.FSBDCSWFL.org; 745- mentoring at no cost to their families. www.LeeHealth.org
3700) provides entrepreneurial and busi- Sylvan Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . 275-1130
ness development services for new and 10011 Estero Town Commons Drive, #107 A comprehensive provider of health care
existing businesses. Estero, FL 33928 services throughout Southwest Florida.
www.SylvanLearning.com Nearly 1,500 physicians on staff and more
FGCU’s Renaissance Academy presents than 50 physician offices and outpatient
opportunities for adult learners through Sylvan Learning uses a personal ap- centers. Four acute care hospitals, two spe-
hands-on experiences, study tours, volun- proach and interactive technology to offer cialty hospitals, urgent care, specialty care
teerism, concerts and lectures. Visit www. homework help and tutoring in math, read- centers and physicians.
FGCU.edu/RAcademy. ing and writing.
Hodges University Coming in 2018, Lee Health – Coconut
2655 Northbrook Drive EMERGENCY Point, a 30-acre medical center. Services
Naples, FL 34119 . . . . . . . . 800-466-8017 MANAGEMENT will include a freestanding emergency
4501 Colonial Blvd. department, an outpatient surgery center,
Fort Myers, FL 33966 . . . . 800-466-0019 Lee County Emergency Operations Center a wellness center and a variety of other
www.Hodges.edu www.leeeoc.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . 533-0622 medical clinics to serve the community.
The 163,000-square-foot campus will also
A regionally accredited, private Florida Visit the website for a list of area public offer outpatient surgeries, imaging ser-
university offering flexible schedules and shelters and emergency evacuation routes. vices, testing labs, a cardiac rehabilitation
online studies leading to certificate and FIRE & RESCUE center, a medical observation unit and a
self-paced programs, as well as associate, Estero Fire & Rescue District . . 390-8000 pharmacy.
bachelor’s and master’s degrees in several 21500 Three Oaks Parkway
disciplines. Schools include Business, Allied Estero, FL 33928 .
Health, Professional Studies, Technology, www.EsteroFire.org • Gulf Coast Medical Center . . . 343-1000
and Liberal Studies. • HealthPark Medical Center . . 343-5000
• Lee Memorial Hospital . . . . . 343-2000
• Cape Coral Hospital . . . . . . . . 424-2000
• Golisano Children’s Hospital
of Southwest Florida . . . . . . . 343-5437
• Lee Physician Group Offices . 481-4111
• Rehabilitation Hospital . . . . . . 343-3900
• Regional Cancer Center . . . . . 343-9500
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 35
NCH Healthcare System . . . . . 624-5000 Senior Care Resources community that offers independent
www.NCHMD.org American House Coconut Point living, assisted living, skilled nursing and
• NCH Baker Hospital Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 494-4724 memory support settings for residents with
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 624-5000 8490 Murano Del Lago Drive Alzheimer’s or dementia. Rehabilitation
• NCH North Naples Hospital . 552-7000 Estero, FL 34135 and therapy services are also available.
• NCH Healthcare Bonita . . . . . 624-1050 www.AmericanHouse.com
HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION
Providing comprehensive health and An upscale senior living community with
wellness care through two hospitals and an 130 units of independent and assisted living, Lee County Property Appraiser’s Office
alliance of more than 700 physicians and plus 64 memory care apartments. Promoting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 533-6100
medical facilities in dozens of locations an active lifestyle, premium amenities include 2480 Thompson Street
throughout Southwest Florida. excursions, a spa and salon, theater, resort- Fort Myers, FL 33901
style pool, gourmet coffee bar and library. www.LeePA.org
NCH Healthcare System is a member Across from Lee Health-Coconut Point.
of the Mayo Clinic Care Network and Life Care Center of Estero . . . . 495-4000 This constitutional benefit provides up
includes the NCH Heart Institute and 3850 Williams Road to a $50,000 exemption from your assessed
NCH Regional Cancer Institute. NCH Estero, FL 33928 property value. Applicants must possess
Healthcare Bonita features the NCH Heart www.LifeCareCenterOfEstero.com title to real property and be state residents
Institute, cardiac rehabilitation, immedi- making the dwelling their permanent home
ate care and NCH Physician Group family Nursing home services for residents on January 1. Documentation is required.
medicine physicians. include skilled and intermediate care, long- Filing details are online.
Urgent Care Center of SW Florida term care, specialized care for Alzheimer’s
(located in Estero Medical Center) and Parkinson’s, and inpatient/outpatient LIBRARY
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 333-2273 rehabilitation therapies. The center also
10201 Arcos Avenue, Suite 105 provides respite services. South County Regional Library . 533-4400
Estero, FL 33928 The Terraces at Bonita Springs . 949-7555 21100 Three Oaks Parkway
www.UrgentCareSWFL.com www.TheTerracesAtBonitaSprings.com Estero, FL 33928
26455 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs www.LeeGov.com/library
Open seven days and evenings Monday-
Friday. All doctors are ER or family medicine A continuing care senior living This 32,600-square-foot facility offers
board-certified. extensive resources for patrons, including
40 public Internet stations.
36 www.EsteroChamber.org
Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday- Southwest Florida International Airport TRANSPORTATION
Wednesday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday;
and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday. SHERIFF’S OFFICE Airports
Southwest Florida International Airport
NEWSPAPERS Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1-1 (RSW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 590-4800
Non-emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . 477-1000 11000 Terminal Access Road
The News-Press . . . . . . . . . . . . . 335-0520 www.SheriffLeeFL.org Fort Myers, FL 33913
www.News-Press.com www.FlyLCPA.com
Naples Daily News/The Banner . 213-6000 SOCIAL SECURITY
www.The-Banner.com International airport serviced by all
Fort Myers . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-772-1213 major airlines. Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ)
PET LICENSES 3650 Colonial Blvd., Ste. 101 status.
Fort Myers, FL 33966; www.SSA.gov Page Field, Fort Myers (FMY)
Lee County Animal Services . . 533-7387 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 590-6600
5600 Banner Drive TAX COLLECTOR’S 5200 Captain Channing Page Drive
Fort Myers, FL 33912 OFFICE Fort Myers, FL 33907
www.LeeLostPets.com www.FlyLCPA.com/fMy
Lee County Tax Collector . . . . . 533-6000
All cats, dogs and ferrets four months or 25987 S. Tamiami Trail Business and general aviation airport.
older must be vaccinated against rabies and Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Bus Service
licensed by the County. Many veterinarians www.LeeTC.com Lee County Transit (LeeTran) . . 533-8726
sell licenses. www.RideLeeTran.com
POST OFFICE LeeTran operates 24 scheduled bus routes,
trolley service, a paratransit service for the
U.S. Postal Service - Estero disabled called Passport, and an employer
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-275-8777 vanpool program.
20791 Three Oaks Parkway Major Highways
Estero, FL 33928; www.USPS.com • I-75 north/south and east from Naples
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday-
Friday; 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday. to Ft. Lauderdale area with connections
to I-95
• U.S. 41 north/south, then east to Miami
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 37
Port Waterways Next Level Church, Coconut Campus
• Port Boca Grande (Gulf of Mexico) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274-3755
• Okeechobee Waterway (extends coast to Services held at the Regal Cinemas at
coast through Lake Okeechobee) Coconut Point Mall
Railroad (Freight) 23601 Fashion Drive
Seminole Gulf Railway . . . . . . . 275-6060 Estero, FL 33928
www.SemGulf.com/Freight www.NextLevelChurch.com
UTILITIES & RECYCLING Our Lady of Light Catholic Church
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 267-7088
Curbside Recycling & Waste Disposal 19680 Cypress View Drive
Lee County Solid Waste . . . . . . 533-8000 Fort Myers, FL 33967
www.LeeGov.com/SolidWaste www.OurLadyOfLight.com
Waste Pro USA . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-0800 River of Life Assembly of God Church
www.WasteRroUSA.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 495-0400
Phone/Cable/Internet 21580 River Ranch Road
Comcast / Xfinity . . . . . . 1-800-934-6489 Estero, FL 33928
www.Xfinity.com www.RiverOfLife.ag
CenturyLink Summit Church . . . . . . . . . . . . 947-7070
Ordering Services . . . . . . . . 877-862-9343 19601 Ben Hill Griffin Parkway
General Customer Service . 888-723-8010 Fort Myers, FL 33913
www.CenturyLink.com www.SummitLife.com
Electric
Florida Power & Light (FPL) Estero Community Park Thrive Community Church . . . 687-3430
Start/stop service calls . . . . . . . . 334-7754 20041 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 1
Outage reports . . . . . . . . . 1-800-468-8243 Christ Community Ministries . 498-4352 Estero, FL 33928
www.FPL.com 8681 County Road www.Thrive-FL.org
Natural Gas Estero, FL 33928
TECO Peoples Gas . . . . . 1-877-832-6747 www.CCMChurch.com BUSINESS INFORMATION
www.PeoplesGas.com Church of Jesus Christ SOURCES & SERVICES
Water & Sewer of Later-Day Saints . . . . . . . . 948-1516, LEE COUNTY & ESTERO
Lee County Utilities . . . . . . . . . . 533-8845 20601 Three Oaks Parkway
www.Lee-County.com/Utilities Estero, FL 33928 Licenses & Permits
Estero United Methodist Church 992-5516 Community Development Department,
VOTER REGISTRATION 8088 Lord’s Way Village of Estero . . . . . . . . . . . . 221-5036
Estero, FL 33928 www.Estero-FL.gov
Lee County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 533-8683 www.EsteroUMC.com (Departments/Services menu)
2480 Thompson Street First Baptist Church of Estero . . 992-0881
Fort Myers, Florida 33901 20300 Trailside Drive Coordinates the land use, zoning, site
www.LeeElections.com Estero, FL 33928 development and permit process within
www.FirstBaptistEstero.com Estero. Construction, reconstruction
Florida is a closed-primary state. Voter Gulf Coast Presbyterian Church and remodeling projects require building
registration closes 29 days before each . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 877-3776 permits and inspections. Downloand
election. Download applications online. Services held at Bella Terra Clubhouse application forms, check permit status and
20070 Bella Terra Blvd. schedule inspections online.
WEATHER Estero, FL 33928 Occupational Licenses (Business Tax
www.GulfCoastPres.com Account) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 533-6000
(Averages in Estero) Lamb of God Lutheran Episcopal www.LeeTC.com
Season . . . . High. . . . . Low . . . . . Rain Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 265-3525
January. . . . 75°F. . . . 54°F . . . . 1.93” 19691 Cypress View Drive Businesses in Estero must obtain a Lee
April. . . . . . 85°F. . . . 63°F . . . . 2.17” Fort Myers, FL 33967 County business tax account which is
July. . . . . . . 92°F. . . . 74°F . . . . 9.06” www.LambOfGodChurch.net issued annually by the Lee County Tax
October. . . 87°F. . . . 69°F . . . . 2.87” Legacy Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . 949-4000 Collector. Visit the website for details and
21115 Design Parc Lane to download an application.
WORSHIP Estero, FL 33928 Professional Regulation . . 850-487-1395
www.LegacyChurchEstero.com www.MyFloridaLicense.com
Apostolic Christian Church . . . 437-7948 Living Waters Church . . . . . . . . 992-3040
19690 Cypress View Drive 22100 S. Tamiami Trail The Florida Department of Business and
Fort Myers, FL 33967 Estero, FL 33928 Professional Regulation in Tallahassee is the
www.FortMyersACC.com www.LWCOnline.com agency charged with licensing and regulating
the state’s businesses and professionals, such
Calvary Chapel Gulf Coast . . . . 949-0914 as cosmetologists, veterinarians, real estate
20991 Three Oaks Parkway agents, etc. View licensing requirements and
Estero, FL 33928 apply for or update a license online.
www.CalvaryGC.org
38 www.EsteroChamber.org
Information Sources Food Pantry • Financial Assistance • Teaching Garden
Estero Chamber of Commerce
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 948-7990 2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 39
10600 Chevrolet Way, Suite 101, Estero
www.EsteroChamber.org
Offers business resources and extensive
networking opportunities, including:
• Rise & Shine Estero (8 - 9:30 a.m., the
first Thursday of the month), networking
over breakfast;
• Lunch & Learn Estero (11:30 a.m.-
1 p.m., the second Wednesday of the
month), providing lunch and business news;
• Business After Hours (5:30 - 7 p.m.,
the fourth Thursday of the month), a mix-
and-mingle with light refreshments;
• Estero Young Professional Network
(monthly and quarterly socials for ages 21
to 35), exchanging ideas and networking
in a relaxed environment.
Lee County Economic Development
of Southwest Florida . . . . . . . . . 338-3161
2201 Second Street, Ste. 500, Fort Myers
www.LeeCountyBusiness.com
#WhereBusinessIsTrending
Supports local business and brings new
business to Lee County. (See “Economic
Development” on page 34.)
Enterprise Florida (EFI) . . 407-956-5600
www.EnterpriseFlorida.com
EFI is a public-private partnership be-
tween Florida’s business and government
leaders, with a mission to expand and diver-
sify the state’s economy through job creation.
It focuses its efforts on a wide range of
industry sectors and is the state’s primary
entity for trade and export development.
EFI also supports small and minority
businesses through its capital programs.
Lee County Visitor & Convention
Bureau . . . . . . . 338-3500, 800-237-6444
2201 Second Street, Ste. 600, Fort Myers
www.FortMyers-Sanibel.com
(Visitor information)
www.LeeVCB.com
(Tourism marketing)
The Lee County VCB offers
comprehensive visitor resources and
destination marketing information and
assistance.
Small Business Development Center
at Florida Gulf Coast University
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 745-3700
https://FSBDCSWFL.org
Training workshops, programs, services
and minority certification designed to help
small business owners, including no-cost
business counseling and guidance by profes-
sionally certified business consultants at mul-
tiple locations.
BUSINESS DEMOGRAPHICS & NEWS
LEE COUNTY & ESTERO
Top 12 Employers - October 2015
Company Type of Business Employees
Lee Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nonprofit hospital/healthcare system. . . . . . . . . . . . 11,800
Lee County School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Public schools, K-12. . . . . . . . . . . . 11,000
Publix Super Markets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grocer, retail. . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,100
Wal-Mart Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . General merchandise, retail. . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,146
Lee County Board of County Commissioners . . . . . . . . County government. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,597
City of Cape Coral . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . City government. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,800
Winn-Dixie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grocer, retail. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,561
Lee County Sheriff’s Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Public safety, sheriff. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,543
Chico’s FAS, Inc. . . . . . . . . Nat’l. store support center for apparel companies. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,426
Florida Gulf Coast University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . State university. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,253
Goodwill Industries of SWFL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Non-Profit. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,187
Home Depot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Home improvement, retail. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,159
Shell Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Retirement Community. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,011
Source: www.leecountybusiness.com
Projected Average Hourly Wages - 2016
Population Growth Selected Occupational Groups in Lee County
(includes Fort Myers, Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50.50 Healthcare Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14.79
Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Estero Business & Financial Operations . . . . . 31.33 Protective Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20.63
Computer Systems Analysts . . . . . . . . . 31.01 Food Prep & Serving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11.66
and unincorporated portions Architecture & Engineering . . . . . . . . . 31.70 Building & Grounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12.73
of Lee County) Life, Physical & Social Science . . . . . . . 27.45 Personal Care & Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 12.64
Social Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.58 Sales & Related . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17.44
2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 674,992 Legal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43.98 Office & Administrative Support . . . . . 16.10
2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 763,232 Education, Training & Library . . . . . . 23.63 Farming, Fishing and Forestry . . . . . . . . 11.11
2025 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 847,963 Arts, Entertainment, Sports & Media . 20.53 Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18.30
Healthcare Practitioners & Technical . . 35.90 Installation, Maintenance & Repair . . . . 19.28
Source: www.leecountybusiness.com Source: www.bls.gov
Industry / Occupation Projected Employment by Industry % Growth
Architecture & Engineering
Arts, Entertainment, Sports & Media 1,959 23.9
Business & Financial Operations 2,427
Cleaning & Maintenance 4,295 8,844 11.5
Community & Social Services 4,789 10,974 24.1
20.5
Computer & Mathematical 2,704 14,147 17,040 15.6
Construction and Extraction 3,125 20.4
Education, Training & Library 2,958 18,416 39.1
Farming, Fishing & Forestry 3,562 25,613 22.5
Food Preparation & Serving -8.0
Healthcare Practitioners & Technical 2,466 11,983 14,677 16.7
2,270 25,4
Healthcare Support 28.3
Management 32,017 18.7
Production 37,356 10.0
15,749 14.5
Sales & Related Services 19,747 14.7
Transportation & Material-Moving
7,897 10,131 12,641
2015 7,101 10,648
2023
8,073
14,095 38,288
43,854
16,173
2,000 4,000 6,000 8,000 10,000 12,000 14,000 16,000 +
Source: www.floridajobs.org
40 www.EsteroChamber.org
Estero
Stats at a Glance
Village Area . . . . . . approx. 30 square miles
Population - year-round . . . . . . . . . . . 30,118
Population - seasonal (winter) . . . . . . 43,360
Business Establishments . . . . . . . . . . . 1,117
Housing Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21,033
Median Household Income . . . . . . $50,318
Median Age . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 years
Residents with a college degree . . . . . . . 61%
Median Home List Price . . . . . . . . $335,000
Home Price per square foot . . . . . . . . . . $170
Median Home Closing Price . . . . . $285,000
Estero offers competitively priced housing and a
cost of living index that compares favorably with
the national average. Housing costs vary based
upon size, amenities and location, with a variety
of neighborhoods that cater to families, singles,
retirees and all age groups.
Sources: https://.Estero-FL.gov; www.
LeeCountyBusiness.com; www.Realtor.com;
https://DataUSA.io/Profile/Geo/Estero-FL/
Lee County
Stats at a Glance
Population (year-round, 2015, estimated) . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 701,982
Median Household Income . . . . . . $48,537
Median Age . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47.5 years
Residents with a college degree . . . . . . . 26%
Density (population per square mile) . . . 849
Sources: www.BEBR.UFL.edu; www.
LeeCountyBusiness.com; https://DataUSA.io/
Profile/Geo/Lee-County-FL/; www.Census.gov
Noteworthy Business News
• Hertz’s new $150 million global headquarters
in Estero officially opened in early 2016, hous-
ing about 650 employees. The 248,600-square-
foot headquarters has received Leadership in
Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
Gold certification, the second highest level
that can be achieved under a LEED program
developed by the U.S. Green Building Council
in 2000. Additionally, Hertz’s cafeteria was
certified by the Green Restaurant Association
as a 4 Star Certified Green Restaurant, one of
only three corporate cafeterias in the world to
achieve this distinction.
• A June 2016 MarketWatch report noted
that Lee County was one of the nation’s top
five counties with the fastest job growth rates.
Between April 2015 and April 2016, the area
added 12,000 jobs in industries including
leisure and hospitality, trade, transportation,
utilities and professional/business services.
• Gartner, a leading information research and
advisory firms, employs 930 associates at its
132,000-square-foot Lee County campus and
plans to hire several hundred more by 2019.
• The University of Florida’s Bureau of Busi-
ness and Economic Research projects a 9
percent increase in Southwest Florida’s 25 to
54 age group by 2020, compared to 4 percent
across the state of Florida.
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 41
MEMBERSHIP Highlighted listings denote Estero magazine advertisers. Italicized information
at the end of each listing identifies the chamber member’s specialty.
ALPHABETICAL Aurelio’s Pizza Castle Management, LLC Business & Professional Services Everglades Wonder Gardens
LISTINGS Tom Wallin..................239-274-8446 Greg Franks.................239-444-6250 D.R. Horton................239-225-2600 Janet Martin.................239-992-2591
Restaurants Business & Professional Services Construction / Remodeling Arts & Entertainment
A
Autumn Leaves Estero Center for the Arts of E Eyeglass World
A Shore Thing Cleaning Service, LLC Margaret Wilson..........239-221-6120 Bonita Springs Marc Strickland ..........239-908-5453
Cheryl Baker................239-207-4389 Health & Medical Care Stevan Stanisic.............239-495-8989 East & Greenwell Allstate Health & Medical Care
Home Services Arts & Entertainment Jeff East........................239-434-7877
Axa Advisors Finance & Insurance F
Accounting for Profitability, LLC Colin Feng...................239-770-1501 CFS Roofing Services, LLC
Cheryl Willett..............239-948-0546 Finance & Insurance Francis Podraza...........239-561-2600 East Commerce Solutions, Inc. Family Foot & Leg Center
Finance & Insurance Construction / Remodeling Don Kane.....................800-527-5395 Dr. Chelsea Viola.........239-430-3668
B Business & Professional Services Medical Care/Podiatrist
Achieva Credit Union Christy’s Cause, Inc.
Charles Stirzel.............239-471-3565 Baird Christy Ivie .................239-209-3833 eBella Magazine FASTSIGNS at Bonita Springs
Finance & Insurance Rebecca Ross...............239-541-9090 Non-Profit/Community Sharon Hood................239-598-0961 Rosi Haller...................239-455-6200
Finance & Insurance Organizations Advertising & Marketing Advertising & Marketing
AdSource
Mary Shallies...............239-495-0007 Barbara Bell Design Group Coastal Carts Elite Realty of SWFL FineMark National Bank & Trust
Advertising & Marketing Barbara Bell.................239-440-6618 Lisa McTear.................239-936-5676 Judi Gietzen............... 239-495-8900 Dallas Revord..............239-405-6700
Home Services Sports & Entertainment Real Estate Finance & Insurance
Affiliated Ankle & Foot of Bonita
Springs Beef O’Brady’s Coconut Point Honda Elite Realty of SWFL First Citizens Bank
Dr. Harry Cotler...........239-444-0700 Peter Ennis...................239-220-6507 Jeries Nsheiwat............239-947-8000 Steve Kolenda..............239-887-0014 Cindy Cedeno..............239-390-5282
Medical Care Restaurants Automotive Real Estate Finance & Insurance
All About Closets Best Home Services College of Life Foundation Embassy Suites Hotel Florida Blue
Pamela Katosic............239-910-3486 Florice Hodges.............239-992-3561 Brandy Minchew ........239-992-2184 Shaune Calguire..........239-949-4222 Meredith Viskovic.......239-494-3460
Home Services Home Services Non-Profit/Community Tourism & Travel Finance & Insurance
Organizations
Alliance Financial Group Best Moving & Storage EnviroStruct, LLC Florida Coastal Dermatology
Katherine Michael, Linda Gutshall.............239-592-6565 Corkscrew Village Self Storage Jeff Maas......................239-494-5700 Associates
Bongiorno Kochis.......239-561-2900 Moving Companies/Storage Facilities Charles Robinson........239-498-2400 Construction / Remodeling Kimberly Weigert....... 239-676-8677
Finance & Insurance Moving Companies/ Health & Medical Care
Best Popcorn Company Storage Facilities Estero Animal Hospital
Allied Van Lines Sharon Kurgis..............239-571-3761 Susan Korecki..............239-992-3896 Florida Community Bank
Linda Gutshall.............239-592-6565 Tourism & Travel Corkscrew Woodlands Assn., Inc. Veterinary Care Tony Tofani..................239-552-1844
Moving Companies/ Storage Facilities Tim Fisher....................239-992-3401 Finance & Insurance
Blue Zones Project - Community Association Estero Art League
ALTHAS Co. Southwest Florida Ina Wolf.......................847-826-3635 Florida Everblades/
Danny Andrade Chante Pemberton.......239-624-2312 Costco Wholesale Corp. Non-Profit/Community Germain Arena
239-333-9729 Health & Wellness Jason Babel..................239-433-7258 Organizations Mike Kelly...................239-948-7825
Finance and Insurance Retail Sports & Recreation
Bonita Boarding Kennel Estero Bay Chevrolet, Inc.
AmTrust Bank, A Division of New & Pet Camp Courtyard at Estero Apartment Charles Winton............239-908-2600 Florida Gulf Coast
York Community Bank Debi Braendle..............239-992-6878 Homes Automotive Physical Therapy
Jennifer Alvarez...........239-498-2381 Veterinary Care Judy Rossington..........239-390-2494 Derek Pirro..................239-948-2222
Finance & Insurance Real Estate Estero Country Club at The Vines Health & Medical Care
Bonita Community Health Center Colleen Sowerby.........239-267-7000
American Cancer Society Sara McCallum, CEO....239-949-6115 Culver’s of Estero Sports & Recreation Florida Gulf Coast University
Julie Harmon...............239-936-1113 Health & Medical Care Michael Bresson .........239-949-9420 Tifarah Pardue.............239-590-1056
Non-Profit/Community Organizations Restaurants Estero Fire Rescue Education
Bonita Springs- Scott Vanderbrook.......239-390-8000
American House Coconut Point Estero Elks Lodge, #2753 Cummings & Lockwood, LLC Government Office Florida Veterinary Referral Center
Scott Flagel..................239-272-1562 Tom Kneer...................239-948-4844 Howard Hujsa … 239-390-8068 & 24 Hour ER
Health & Medical Care Community Business & Professional Services Estero Historical Society Laura Breunig .............239-992-8878
Jean Pryal.....................239-498-5296 Veterinary Care
Applebees Bonita Springs- D Education
Brittany Sweeney........239-992-1310 Estero Association of Realtors Focus Real Estate, LLC
Restaurants Meighan Harris............239-992-6771 DeAngelis Diamond Healthcare Estero Life Magazine Ursula Weinkauff.........239-297-2777
Real Estate Group, LLC Gary Israel...................239-287-4246 Real Estate
Arc Circle of Life Family Spinal Care John DeAngelis...........239-594-1994 Advertising & Marketing
Drew Montez Clark.....239-200-7248 Bonita Video Health & Medical Care Fountain Lakes Community
Health & Medical Care Antonio Correia...........239-404-3377 Estero River Outfitters Michael Towns............239-495-3556
Business & Professional Services Dex YP Paula Stuller.................239-992-4050 Community Association
Atilus Chuck Smith................239-220-7077 Sports & Recreation
Zach Katkin.................239-362-1271 Brennan, Manna & Diamond Advertising & Marketing Fred Astaire Dance Studio
Business & Professional Services Donna Flammang........239-405-8672 Estero Speech and Language of Bonita Springs
Legal Services & Attorneys Diamond Oaks Village Services LLC Oleksandra Datsyk......239-949-9680
Associates In Medicine and Surgery Karen Dujka.................239-676-1259 Kristi-Leigh Lyon .......239-253-1290 Arts & Entertainment
Jennifer Hildebrand.....239-498-4979 C Community Association Education
Health & Medical Care Friends of Lovers Key, Inc.
Care Right Inc Dealer’s Greatest Assets, Inc. Estero Spotlight News Magazine Timothy C Horvatich...239-463-4588
Audiology & Hearing Care of SWFL Annalee Kruger...........239-770-6322 David Winterling ........410-456-9328 Peter O’Flinn...............239-204-2013 Non-Profit/Community Organizations
Dr. Darlene Ballew......239-221-0610 Health & Medical Advertising & Marketing
Health & Medical Care
42 www.EsteroChamber.org
Friends of South Cty. Reg. Library Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP I Lake Michigan Credit Union Leishman, Aaron A., DMD. PA
Karen Katz...................239-533-4400 Maureen McGovern....239-254-2924 Sally Ricciardelli.........239-495-0243 Melica Leishman.........239-947-7992
Non-Profit/Community Organizations Legal Services & Attorneys Interfaith Charities of South Lee Finance & Insurance Health & Medical Care
Bonnie Olson...............239-267-3510
Ft. Myers Regional Partnership Hampton Inn & Suites Estero/ Non-Profit/Community Organizations LandCastle Title Company LLC Life Care Center of Estero
Lee County’s Economical FGCU Michael Kaprove.........813-476-3027 Jim Breuler..................239-495-4000
Development Office Mary Silva ..................239-947-5566 iPartnerMedia Real Estate Health & Medical Care
Jim Moore....................239-338-3161 Tourism & Travel Randy Mitchelson.......239-449-4749
Government Office Computers & Technology Leading Edge Benefit Advisors, LivingWell Chiropractic
Hilton Garden Inn Ft Myers LLC Vivian Ebert.................239-498-2225
G Airport/FGCU J Timothy McGee...........239-415-0101 Health & Medical Care
Maureen Killeen..........239-210-7200 Finance & Insurance
Gates Construction Tourism & Travel J.R. Evans Engineering, P.A. M
Bridget Tembley..........239-593-3777 Pam Hyyti....................239-405-9148 Lee County Elections Office
Construction / Remodeling Hoglund Family Hearing Business & Professional Services Vicki Collins................239-533-8683 Manderschied, Bernd
John Hoglund...............941-704-5753 Government Office Waters Edge Real Estate, LLC
GED Law .....................................239-498-7142 Jardin de Ville Bernd Manderschied... 239-851-9481
David Ged....................239-676-7492 Health & Medical Care Linda Moore................239-947-4005 Lee County Library System Real Estate
Legal Services & Attorneys Retail Barb Farrell Swanson...239-533-4800
Homewood Suites by Hilton Non-Profit/Community Organizations Marketplace Title
GMS Smart Solutions Bonita Springs Jumpp To It Home Watch Joe Taylor.....................239-333-4550
Gene Montenieri..........239-691-8565 Andrea Smith...............239-949-5913 Nicole St. John.............239-992-2052 Lee County Sheriff’s Office Real Estate
Environmental Services Tourism & Travel Home Services Morgan Bowden..........239-477-1010
Government Office Massage Heights Gulf Coast
GrayRobinson, P.A. Hot Works Estero Fine Arts Show K Ginger Barkhausen......239-908-4007
Carl Westman..............239-598-3601 Patty Narozny..............941-755-3088 Lee County Visitor Health and Wellness
Legal Services & Attorneys Arts & Entertainment Kinexis Chiropractic & Convention Bureau
Andrea Schmidt...........239-948-1222 Tamara Pigott...............239-338-3500 Med Express Urgent Care
GulfShore Pediatric Dentistry Houck Dermatology Health & Medical Care Government Office Stephanie Sanchez.......239-495-3317
Shea Sammons............239-301-4278 Dr. Gregory Houck......239-390-3376 Health & Medical Care
Medical Care/Pediatric Dentist Health & Medical Care Koreshan State Park Lee Health
Rick Argo.....................239-992-0311 Mary Andrews.............239-343-4812 Michael Jackson, PA /
Gulf Title Guaranty Agency LLC Hyatt Place Coconut Point Sports and Recreation Health & Medical Care Keller Williams Elite Realty
Sharon Green ..............239-676-5994 William Hartmann.......239-495-1395 Michael Jackson..........239-919-6315
Real Estate Tourism & Travel L LeeCorp Homes, Inc. Real Estate
Phil & Jan Lee.............239-498-2220
H Hyatt Regency LAI Construction Management, Inc. Construction / Remodeling Midgard Self Storage
Coconut Point Resort & Spa Richard Losee..............239-405-6888 Phil Mikel....................770-609-8276
H&R Block Brian Kramer...............239-390-4210 Construction / Remodeling Legacy Church Moving Companies/ Storage
Linda Rance.................239-246-7460 Tourism & Travel Nolen Rollins...............239-860-0096 Facilities
Finance & Insurance Religious Organizations
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 43
Miromar Design Center North American Title Company P Rebecca Levitan PA Select Physical Therapy
Deborah Hamilton.......239-390-5111 Nicole Brunges............239-542-6282 Downing-Frye Realty, Inc. Leslie Butler................239-390-1656
Retail Real Estate Partin Professional Services, LLC Rebecca Levitan..........239-292-6860 Health & Medical Care
Gini Willis-Partin.........239-877-7142 Real Estate
Miromar Outlets Northwestern Mutual Financial Business & Professional Services Select Real Estate
Jeff Staner....................239-948-3766 Network Robert Half Chloe Maros ...............239-277-1515
Retail Southida Palmer..........239-676-2337 Paychex Matthew Grenzy..........239-985-2230 Real Estate
Finance & Insurance KarenTarpin.................239-595-2224 Business & Professional Services
Molly Maid of Fort Myers Business & Professional Services Senior Friendship Centers
Doug Heffner...............239-418-0052 NU World Title Rockford Construction of Lee County
Home Services Madelin Espino............239-317-1147 PestMax Control Solutions Danielle O’Brien.........239-217-3487 Nancy Green Irwin......239-275-1881
Real Estate John Goll......................239-454-4888 Construction / Remodeling Non-Profit/Community Organizations
Monarch Builders Home Services
of SW Florida, Inc. Nuf Media Rocky Top V, IIc Shadow Wood Country Club
Chad Kocses ...............239-560-5524 Dale Ward....................239-220-4370 Photography by David Michael Benjamin Barile...........941-548-7709 Danita Osborn..............239-992-6000
Construction / Remodeling Advertising & Marketing David Michael Di Marino Construction/Remodeling Community Association
.....................................239-947-0746
N O Business & Professional Services Rodizio Grill Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home
Spencer Anopol .........801-567-0500 William & Elizabeth Shikany
Naples Daily News & Banner Oakbrook Properties, Inc Platinum Media Services Restaurants .....................................239-992-4982
Robin Lankton ............239-263-4893 Ned Dewhirst...............239-992-5529 of SW Florida, Inc. Business & Professional Services
Advertising & Marketing Construction / Remodeling Sharon VanRite............239-591-3323 Ron’s Painting
Advertising & Marketing Ronald Rooker.............239-229-5669 Sign A Rama
NCH Healthcare System O’Donnell Landscapes, Inc. Home Services Bruce & Darlene Vanderveen
Mike Riley...................239-436-5101 Al O’Donnell...............239-992-8842 Premier Sotheby’s .....................................239-791-8810
Health & Medical Care Home Services International Realty Rosier Insurance Advertising & Marketing
Beth Mancini...............239-948-4000 Bob Rosier...................239-444-1414
New Horizons of SWFL Office Depot Real Estate Finance & Insurance Smartchoices.Healthcare
Debra Haley.................239-948-4146 Bridget Coulter ….......239-495-8686 Barbara Saxton.239-301-0295:Office
Non-Profit/Community Organizations Business & Professional Services Presstige Printing Rotary Club of Estero .......................860-685-1147: Mobile
Richard Jackette...........239-989-2867 Millard Pray.................239-949-0769 Finance & Insurance
NM Development Group, LLC Old Corkscrew Golf Club Advertising & Marketing Non-Profit/Community Organizations
Al Moscato..................239-234-5941 Mark Iwinski...............239-949-7900 Southwest Florida Council,
Construction / Remodeling Sports & Recreation R Ruth’s Chris Steak House Boy Scouts of America
Aleks Kunov................239-948-8888 James Laughlin............239-936-8072
No Worry Plumbing LLC Our Mother’s Home of Realty World - Restaurants Non-Profit/Community
David & Laurie Rinehardt SW FL, Inc. J. Pavich Real Estate Organizations
.....................................239-287-2334 Karen Watson..............239-267-4663 Joe & Joni Pavich........239-470-7837 S
Construction / Remodeling Non-Profit/Community Organizations Real Estate Speakers Assembly of SWFL
San Carlos Chiropractic Arden McCurdy...........239-948-7909
Ryan Parrish.................239-267-1077 Non-Profit/Community Organizations
Health & Medical Care
44 www.EsteroChamber.org
Sponge Spa Car Wash T The Sky Family YMCA U West Bay Realty
George Sisti.................239-689-4650 Kim Gilchrist...............239-221-7560 Steve Horn...................239-948-9009
Automotive T-Mobile Store 4055 Non-Profit/Community Organizations Urgent Care Center of SW Florida Real Estate
Kisan Chhotalal...........239-738-8818 Larry Hobbs.................239-949-0085
Springs at Gulf Coast Business & Professional Services The Terraces at Bonita Springs Health & Medical Care West End Equity Partners
Jennifer Barnett...........239-580-6130 Lori Henderson............239-949-7853 Benjamin Casey...........305-240-4047
Real Estate Ted Todd Insurance Health & Medical Care V Finance & Insurance
Ted Todd......................239-561-1100
Spring Run Golf Club Finance & Insurance The UPS Store - Estero Valley National Bank Wildcat Run Charitable Foundation
Iva Sololil....................239-992-3811 Richard & Kevin Coolen Kaci Carter...................239-444-6128 Gina Turkel..................239-390-4109
Community Association Ted’s Montana Grill .....................................239-948-1900 Finance & Insurance Charitable Organization
Jessica Smith...............404-522-4327 Business & Professional Services
State Insurance USA LLC Restaurants Village of Estero Wright Construction Group
Blake Chapman...........239-567-9992 The Woodruff Institute Steve Sarkozy............239-221-5035 Chris Campbell............239-481-5000
Finance & Insurance Titan Financial Rachel Coughlin..........239-596-9337 Government Office Construction / Remodeling
Mark Cangiano............561-213-3900 Health & Medical Care
Stock Development Finance & Insurance Villages at Country Creek Y
Claudine Witzel...........239-592-7344 Thompson’s Turf Care Chuck Hunkins............239-947-3840
Construction / Remodeling The Chamber of SW Florida Mark Thompson.........855-594-2564 Community Association Young Life College- FGCU
David Miller................239-275-2102 Home Services Brad McKlveen...........803-319-4263
Storm Shield, LLC Non-Profit/Community Organizations W Religious Organizations
Keith Albanito.............239-491-7002 Thrive Community Church
Construction / Remodeling The Club at Grandezza John Roth.....................239-220-3547 Waters Edge Real Estate, LLC Z
Amanda Wichmanowski Religious Organizations Steve Manderschied....239-319-5988
Strong Tower Inspection .....................................239-948-3569 Real Estate Zonta Club of Bonita Springs
Daniel Betlee...............239-980-1830 Community Association TLC Marketing Nancy Dalaskey...........239-434-5134
Real Estate & Creative Services WBN Marketing LLC Non-Profit/Community Organizations
The Foundation for Lee County Trish Leonard..............239-405-8115 Nella DeCesare............239-919-0933
SunTrust Bank Coconut Point Public Schools, Inc. Advertising & Marketing Advertising & Marketing
Donna Zielinski ..........239-908-5541 Marshall Bower...........239-337-0433
Finance & Insurance Non-Profit/Community Organization Tony Sacco’s Coal Oven Pizza WCR Women’s Council of
Allison Shea.................239-948-6697 Realtors Bonita Springs
SWFL Metsquerade The Lock Up Self Storage Restaurants Adrienne Meijer..........239-273-0037
Karin Petrocelli 239-322-2110 Ryan Litterini Non-Profit/Community Organizations
Non-Profit/Community Organizations 239-908-0789 TownePlace Suites by Marriott
Moving / Storage Lindsay Chapman........239-317-3200 West Bay Club
Sylvan Learning Tourism & Travel Barbara Alderson ........239-444-2360
Denise DeFreh.............239-275-1130 The Neapolitan Pizza Company of Community Association
Education SW Florida, Inc
John Wysseier..............239-834-9183
Restaurants
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 45
ADVERTISING Dealer’s Greatest Assets, Inc.
& MARKETING 24301 Walden Center Drive,
AdSource Suite 102
1415 Panther Lane Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Naples, FL 34109 David Winterling
Mary Shallies 410-456-9328
239-495-0007 [email protected]
[email protected]
East Commerce Solutions, Inc.
Dex YP 22 Morris Lane
17210 Caloosa Trace Circle East Providence, RI 02914
Estero, FL 33967 Don Kane
Chuck Smith 800-527-5395
239-220-7077 dkane@
[email protected]
eastcommercesolutions.com
eBella Magazine
9015 Strada Stell Court, Unit 104 J.R. Evans Engineering, P.A
Naples, FL 34109 9351 Corkscrew Road #102
Sharon Hood Estero, FL 33928
239-598-0961 Pam Hyyti
[email protected] 239-405-9148
[email protected]
Estero Life Magazine
P.O. Box 581 Office Depot
Estero, FL 33929 8004 Mediterranean Drive
Gary Israel Estero, FL 33928
239-287-4246 Bridget Coulter
[email protected] 239-495-8686
[email protected]
Estero Spotlight News Magazine
P.O. Box 1946 Partin Professional Services, LLC
Bonita Springs, FL 34133 5551 Luckett Road, B23
Peter O’Flinn Fort Myers, FL 33905
239-204-2013 Gini Partin
[email protected] 239-877-7142
[email protected]
FASTSIGNS at Bonita Springs You can find sculptures and art all around Estero.
28440 Old US 41 Road, #6 Paychex
Bonita Springs FL 34135 TLC Marketing Hot Works Estero BUSINESS & 3860 Colonial Blvd. #200
Rosi Haller & Creative Services Fine Arts Show PROFESSIONAL Fort Myers, FL 33966
239-455-6200 9148 Bonita Beach Road, Ste. 201 P.O. Box 1425 Karen Tarpin
[email protected] Bonita Springs, FL 34135 Sarasota, FL 34230 SERVICES 239-595-2224
Trish Leonard Patty Narozny [email protected]
Naples Daily News & Banner 239-405-8115 941-755-3088 Atilus
1100 Immokalee Road [email protected] [email protected] 28440 Old 41 Rd., Unit 9 Photography by David Michael
Naples, FL 34110 Bonita Springs, FL 34135 20455 Foxworth Circle
Robin Lankton WBN Marketing LLC AUTOMOTIVE Zach Katkin Estero, FL 33928
239-263-4893 6214 Trail Blvd 239-362-1271 David Michael Di Marino
[email protected] Naples, FL 34108 Coconut Point Honda [email protected] 239-947-0746
Nella DeCesare 22240 S. Tamiami Trail photographybydavidmichael@
Nuf Media 239-919-0933 Estero, FL 33928 Best Popcorn Company
780 5th Avenue, Suite 200 [email protected] Jeries Nsheiwat 2655 64th St SW comcast.net
Naples, FL 34102 239-947-8000 Naples, FL 34105
Dale Ward ARTS & jnsheiwat@ Sharon Kurgis Robert Half
239-220-4370 ENTERTAINMENT 239-571-3761 9530 Market Place Road, #208
[email protected] coconutpointhonda.com [email protected] Fort Myers FL 33912
Center for the Arts Matthew Grenzy
Platinum Media Services of Bonita Springs Estero Bay Chevrolet, Inc. Bonita Video 239-985-2230
of SW Florida, Inc. 21600 Old 41 10640 Chevrolet Way 19724 Maddelena Circle [email protected]
10285 Winterview Drive Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Estero, FL 33928 Estero, FL 33928
Naples, FL 34109 Stevan Stanisic Charles Winton Antonio Correia Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home
Sharon Van Rite 239-495-8989 239-908-2600 239-404-3377 28300 Tamiami Trail South
239-591-3323 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Bonita Springs, FL 34134
[email protected] William & Elizabeth Shikany
Everglades Wonder Gardens Sponge Spa Car Wash Castle Management, LLC 239-992-4982
Presstige Printing P.O. Box 822 15971 S. Tamiami Trail 21101 Design Parc Lane [email protected]
10940 Harmony Park Drive Bonita Springs, FL 34133 Fort Myers, FL 33912 Estero, FL 33928
Bonita Springs FL 34135 Janet Martin George Sisti Greg Franks T-Mobile Store 4055
Bob Weidenmiller 239-992-2591 239-689-4650 239-444-6250 22921 Lyden Drive
239-989-2867 jmartin@ flmanager@ [email protected] Estero, FL 33928
[email protected] Kisan Chhotalal
evergladeswondergardens.com spongespacarwash.com Cummings & Lockwood, LLC 239-738-8818
Sign A Rama 8000 Health Center Blvd., [email protected]
4621 BayShore Road Fred Astaire Dance Studio
Fort Myers, FL 33917 of Bonita Springs Suite 300 The UPS Store – Estero
Bruce & Darlene Vanderveen 25221 Chamber of Commerce Dr. Bonita Springs, FL 34135 21301 S. Tamiami Trail #320
239-791-8810 Bonita Springs, FL 34135 Howard Hujsa Estero, FL 33928
[email protected] Oleksandra Datsyk 239-390-8068 Richard & Kevin Coolen
239-949-9680 [email protected] 239-948-1900
[email protected] [email protected]
46 www.EsteroChamber.org
COMMUNITY LAI Construction Since 1994
ASSOCIATION Management, Inc.
Veterinarians recommend that pets do much better
Corkscrew Woodlands Assn., Inc. 9911 Corkscrew Road, Suite 202 when kept in a calm and quiet environment.
21600 Corkscrew Woodlands Blvd. Estero, FL 33928
Estero, FL 33928 Richard Losee They are less anxious, less stressed and happier!
Tim Fisher 239-405-6888
239-992-3401 [email protected] Your pet’s happiness is my priority!
[email protected]
LeeCorp Homes, Inc. I offer superior, kennel-free boarding in my home,
Diamond Oaks Village 20251 S. Tamiami Trail or personalized pet sitting in your home.
24110 S. Tamiami Trail Estero, FL 33928
Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Phil & Jan Lee Specialized services and Vet Tech Experience.
Karen Dujka 239-498-2220
239-676-1259 [email protected] For more information: 239-455-3222 • [email protected]
[email protected]
Monarch Builders References from clients, veterinarians and
Fountain Lakes Community of SW Florida, Inc. groomers available upon request
22201 Fountain Lakes Blvd. 24551 Production Circle, # 6
Estero, FL 33928 Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Michael Towns Chad Kocses
239-495-3556 239-560-5524
michaeltowns@ [email protected]
towneproperties.com NM Development Group, LLC
225 Banyan Blvd., #240
Villages at Country Creek Naples, FL 34102
21180 Country Creek Drive Al Moscato
Estero, FL 33928 239-234-5941
Chuck Hunkins [email protected]
239-947-3840 [email protected]
[email protected]
No Worry Plumbing LLC
West Bay Club 20301 Grande Oak Shoppes Blvd.,
4606 West Bay Boulevard
Estero, FL 33928 Suite 118 #57
Barbara Alderson Estero, FL 33928
239-444-2360 David & Laurie Rinehardt
[email protected] 239-287-2334
[email protected]
COMPUTERS
& TECHNOLOGY Oakbrook Properties, Inc
24880 Burnt Pine Drive, # 8
IPartnerMedia Bonita Springs, FL 34134
28200 Old 41 Road, Suite 204 Ned Dewhirst
Bonita Springs, FL 34135 239-992-5529
Randy Mitchelson [email protected]
239-449-4749
[email protected] Rockford Construction
9990 Coconut Road, Suite 375
CONSTRUCTION Estero, FL 33928
& REMODELING Danielle O’Brien
239-217-3487
CFS Roofing Services, LLC dobrien@
12120 Amedicus Lane
Fort Myers, FL 33907 rockfordconstruction.com
Francis Podraza
239-561-2600 Rocky Top V, IIc
[email protected] 16301 Innovation Lane
Fort Myers, FL 33913
D.R. Horton Benjamin Barile
10541 Benjamin C Pratt/ 941-548-7709/ 423-585-7931 cell
[email protected]
Six Mile Cypress Pkwy
Fort Myers, FL 33966 Stock Development
Regina Toops 2647 Professional Circle, #1201
239-225-2600 Naples, FL 34119
[email protected] Claudine Witzel
239-592-7344
EnviroStruct, LLC cleger-wetzel@
26711 Dublin Woods Circle
Bonita Springs, FL 34135 stockdevelopment.com
Jeff Maas
239-494-5700 Storm Shield, LLC
[email protected] 19751 N Tamiami Trail North
Fort Myers, FL 33903
Gates Construction Keith Albanito
27599 Riverview Center Blvd., 239-491-7002
[email protected]
#205
Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Wright Construction Group
Bridget Tembley 5811 Youngquist Road
239-593-3777 Fort Myers, FL 33912
[email protected] Chris Campbell
239-481-5000
[email protected]
2018 Estero Chamber of Commerce 47
EDUCATION: Axa Advisors Estero Village Hall Arc Circle of Life Family
9530 Marketplace Road, Ste. 101 Spinal Care
Estero Historical Society Fort Myers, FL 33912 Smartchoices Healthcare Ft. Myers Regional Partnership 26731 Dublin Woods Circle, Ste. 2
P.O. Box 1314 Colin Feng 19634 Tesoro Way Lee County’s Economical Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Estero , FL 33929 239-770-1501 Estero, FL 33967 Development Office Drew Montez Clark
Jean Pryal [email protected] Barbara Saxton 2201 Second Street 239-200-7248
239-498-5296 239-301-0295 Fort Myers, FL 33901 [email protected]
[email protected] Baird [email protected] Jim Moore
Rebecca Ross 239-338-3161 Associates In Medicine
Estero Speech and Language 239-541-9090 State Insurance USA LLC [email protected] and Surgery
Services, LLC [email protected] 4450 Camino Real Way [email protected] 9250 Corkscrew Road, #7
Fort Myers, FL 33966 Estero, FL 33928
9990 Coconut Road, Suite 332 East & Greenwell Allstate Blake Chapman Lee County Elections Office Jennifer Hildebrand
Estero, FL 33928 20321 Grande Oaks Shoppes, #308 239-567-9992 2480 Thompson Street 239-498-4979
Kristi-Leigh Lyon Estero, FL 33928 [email protected] Fort Myers, FL 33901 [email protected]
239-253-1290 Jeff East Vicki Collins
[email protected] 239-434-7877 SunTrust Bank Coconut Point 239-533-8683 Audiology & Hearing Care
[email protected] 3501 Vanderberg Way [email protected] of SWFL
Florida Gulf Coast University Estero, FL 33928 24810 Burnt Pine Drive, Suite 2
10501 FGCU Blvd. South FineMark National Bank Donna Zielinski Lee County Sheriff’s Office Bonita Springs FL 34134
Fort Myers, FL 33965 & Trust 239-908-5541 14750 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy. Dr. Darlene Ballew
Tifarah Pardue 10010 Coconut Road [email protected] Fort Myers, FL 33912 239-221-0610
239-590-1056 Bonita Springs, FL 34135 Morgan Bowden [email protected]
[email protected] Dallas Revord Ted Todd Insurance 239-477-1010
239-405-6700 10020 Coconut Road, #144 [email protected] Autumn Leaves Estero
Sylvan Learning [email protected] Bonita Springs, FL 34135 22900 Lyden Drive
10011 Estero Town Commons Ted Todd Lee County Visitor & Estero, FL 33928
First Citizens Bank 239-561-1100 Convention Bureau Margaret Wilson
Place, Unit 107A 13525 Bell Tower Drive [email protected] 2201 Second Street, #600 239-221-6120
Estero, FL 33928 Fort Myers, FL 33907 Fort Myers, FL 33901 [email protected]
Denise DeFrehn Cindy Cedeno Titan Financial Tamara Pigott
239-275-1130 239-390-5282 6150 Diamond Centre Ct., #603 239-338-3500 Bonita Community
[email protected] [email protected] Fort Myers, FL 33912 [email protected] Health Center
Mark Cangiano 3501 Health Center Blvd.
ENVIRONMENTAL Florida Blue 561-213-3900 Village of Estero Bonita Springs, FL 34135
SERVICES 8041 Plaza Del Lago Drive [email protected] 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle Sara McCallum, CEO
Estero, FL 33928 Estero, FL 33928 239-949-6115
GMS Smart Solutions Meredith Viskovic Valley National Bank Steve Sarkozy [email protected]
9844 Alhambra Lane 239-494-3460 7996 Mediterranean Drive 239-221-5035
Bonita Springs, FL 34134 meredith.viskovic@ Estero, FL 33928 [email protected] Care Right, Inc.
Gene Montenieri Kaci Carter P. O. Box 1988
239-691-8565 floridablue.com 239-444-6120 HEALTH & 27499 Riverview Center Blvd,
[email protected] [email protected] MEDICAL CARE #21
Florida Community Bank Bonita Springs, FL 34133
FINANCE 3360 Bonita Beach Road West End Equity Partners Affiliated Ankle & Foot of Annalee Kruger
& INSURANCE Bonita Springs, FL 34134 20301 Grande Oak Blvd., Bonita Springs 239-770-6322
Tony Tofani 23421 Walden Center Drive [email protected]
Accounting for Profitability, LLC 239-552-1844 Unit 118-24 Suite 100
23190 Fashion Drive, P209 [email protected] Estero, FL 33928 Bonita Springs, FL 34134 DeAngelis Diamond Healthcare
Estero, FL 33928 Benjamin Casey Dr. Harry Cotler Group, LLC
Cheryl Willett H&R Block 305-240-4047 239-444-0700
239-948-0546 1338 Del Prado Blvd S., #10 [email protected] [email protected] 6635 Willow Park Drive
[email protected] Cape Coral, FL 33990 Naples, FL 34109
Linda Rance GOVERNMENT American House Coconut Point John DeAngelis
Achieva Credit Union 239-246-7460 8460 Murano Del Lago Drive 239-594-1994
21301 S. Tamiami Trail linda.rance@hrblockcom Estero Fire Rescue Bonita Springs FL 34135 [email protected]
Estero, FL 33928 21500 Three Oaks Parkway Scott Flagel
Charles Stirzel Lake Michigan Credit Union Estero, FL 33928 239-272-1562 Eyeglass World
239-471-3565 4450 Bonita Beach Road, #15 Scott Vanderbrook [email protected] 22907 Lyden Drive
[email protected] Bonita Springs, FL 34134 239-390-8000 coconutpointassistant@ Estero, FL 33928
Sally Ricciardelli [email protected] Marc Strickland
Alliance Financial Group 239-495-0243 americanhouse.com Lynae Millette
14021 Metropolis Avenue [email protected] 239-908-5453
Fort Myers, FL 33912 marc.strickland@
Katherine Bongiorno Leading Edge Benefit
Michael Kochis Advisors, LLC nationalvision.com
239-561-2900 [email protected]
[email protected] 12450 Brantley Commons Ct.
[email protected] Fort Myers, FL 33907 Family Foot & Leg Center
Timothy McGee 9510 Corkscrew Palms Circle,
ALTHAS Co. 239-415-0101
10981 Bonita Beach Road [email protected] Suite 3
Bonita Springs, FL 34135 Estero, FL 33928
Danny Andrade Northwestern Mutual Dr. Chelsea Viola
239-333-9729 Financial Network 239-430-3668
[email protected] 23160 Fashion Drive, #217 [email protected]
Coconut Point Office
AmTrust Bank, A Division of Estero, FL 33928 Florida Coastal Dermatology
New York Community Bank Southida Palmer Associates
23050 Via Villagio, Suite 111 239-676-2337
Estero, FL 33928 [email protected] 19910 S. Tamiami Trail, #B
Jennifer Alvarez Estero, FL 33928
239-498-2381 Rosier Insurance Kimberly Weigert
[email protected] 9696 Bonita Beach Rd., Suite 103 239-676-8677
Bonita Springs, FL 34135 [email protected]
Bob Rosier
239-444-1414
[email protected]
48 www.EsteroChamber.org
The words you are searching are inside this book. To get more targeted content, please make full-text search by clicking here.
Estero 2018 Magazine
Discover the best professional documents and content resources in AnyFlip Document Base.
Search