Gary Israel

Gary Israel

June through November brings with it the powerful energy of our annual rainy season, peppering us with not only rain but also with the great energy of lightning and thunderstorms. Those of us who are long-time residents typically take this weather activity in stride. However, for new residents to the area, their first rainy season can be somewhat harrowing! We encourage everyone to stay safe and use common sense. One more swim or golf swing is not that important.

This July, another style of energy and excitement will soar into Estero at Hertz Arena as Cirque du Soleil’s production of OVO arrives July 31 through August 3 with its cast of world-class athletes, acrobats and actors bursting on stage with endless energy. Cirque du Soleil fans, old and new, will be dazzled with colors, sounds and physical artistry, good for all ages!

A cutting-edge cancer treatment comes to Estero, bringing yet a different type of energy — that of Proton therapy, the most significant contribution to cancer care in decades! Proton therapy is quickly becoming a favored alternative to traditional radiation therapy as it offers extra protection for vital organs and tissue while reducing side effects. As the final testing and calibration is completed, this beautiful facility at the corner of Estero Parkway and Three Oaks Parkway will be fully operational by late fall and will be the only proton center on the west coast of Florida! We know you will be excited to read more in this month’s cover story.

Our dining feature this month, Poke Fusion, can be found nearby at the University Villages near the corner of Ben Hill Griffin Parkway and Estero Parkway. And 100% of the employees are FGCU students, generating a youthful energy for this health-conscious casual dining experience. Poke bowls — with diced fish, marinated and served over rice or salads with various toppings and sauces, all Hawaiian-style — is a healthy way to refuel your personal energy! Check out our favorites with some very unique dishes.

Most of us, I’m sure, remember the children’s story, “The Little Engine That Could.” This is what comes to mind when presented each year with Village’s planned capital improvements. Regardless of the economy, hurricanes, political climate or expansion challenges, our amazing Village of Estero just keeps chugging along with exceptional energy, focused on our goals of continual progress and improvement. The upcoming fiscal year 2025-26 is no different. Our Village Connection provides a list of those capital improvement projects we all can look forward to. Our community should take great pride in the forward thinking of our Village leadership.

And speaking of pride, being a proud and patriotic American, my favorite holiday (after Easter and Christmas) is The Fourth of July, with all its glory of flags, parades, marching bands and the tremendous energy of fireworks! I love fireworks, but I leave them to the professionals. The louder, the better!

I’m excited to be given the opportunity this Fourth of July to sing the National Anthem for the Minnesota Twins minor league baseball team, the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels. Year after year, they have amazing fireworks. Talk about energy! God Bless America!! 

Whatever you do and however you celebrate, please take all precautions to have a safe and Happy Fourth of July.

 

Until next month, remember to…

Enjoy the Good Life: Estero Life!!!

Gary

Gary Israel, President & Publisher

Estero Life Magazine

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