Arrival Guide July 2023

Hello Villagers!

Staying true to our beliefs means always providing exceptional care. That’s why we offer a collection of signature services you won’t find anywhere else, honed by our unwaivering principles.

•Five-Star

•G entle, Compassionate

•Exceptional

•L eading

“They are always on time, all staff personnel are friendly and experienced in their jobs. Facility is very clean and Dr. Farrell is very professional and nice too.” - L.L.

“Absolutely the best dental care available anywhere. Top notch professionals in all areas. Kelly was my hygienist and was wonderful. So thankful for the care I always receive at Village Dental.” - L.R.

WELCOME Villager

he Arrival Guide leads the way into our community and into Florida. The guide provides valuable information to arriving Villagers, on businesses, local events, attractions, and Florida travel. The Arrival Guide also offers advertising opportunity for businesses intent on reaching new Villagers even ahead of their arrival. The Arrival Guide is available via high-tech hardcopy, high-tech digital copy, ArrivalGuide. com, and inside Style Magazine Village Edition.

The way I envision it, the Arrival Guide blends together two distinct categories of businesses that Villagers rely on for a smooth and entertaining transition into The Villages.

The first category I call, “Get Settled.” This category is highlighted by longtime businesses, “The Originals,” contributing to our community, such as Etheredge Chiropractic, Window Reflections, Custom Windows & Exterior Design, Done Right Electric, Florida Appeals, and Village Dental. These companies, and more importantly, the owners/founders of these

companies, have been serving our community for more than 25 years, possibly back to the days of The Big White Tent. They know the ropes and they will get you set up fast and set up right!

With time comes a new breed flexing their entrepreneurial spirit and custom styles. Leading the new breed of custom style is Pine Tree Lake Woodshop, Mastropiece, Kitchen Wise & Closet Wise, Son Life Lawn & Landscaping, and Innovative Concrete Coatings. Want your house to become your signature custom home? Then call and get on their schedules today!

The second category I call, “Get Loose in Florida!” This category highlights exploration of Florida, retail & restaurant therapy, vibrant arts & culture, sports, and of course, Florida beaches!

You have a lot to get done and plenty of time for fun. The Arrival Guide is your checklist for life under our warm Florida sun!

Scott A. Lepper

Scott A. Lepper Arrival Guide Founder and Village of St. Johns Homeowner Scott@ArrivalGuide.com

PINELLAS

County

Villagers find fun at beautiful beaches, cultural attractions — and more — in Pinellas County.

Pinellas boasts stunning coastline and pristine beaches at St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Treasure Island—all renowned for soft sands and sparkling blue waters. However, many locals favor the paths of Dunedin, Indian Rocks, and this author’s favorite destination, Pass-A-Grille. Villagers intent on soaking up sun, taking a refreshing dip, or simply relaxing and enjoying ocean breezes won’t be disappointed by any of the beaches mentioned above.

Art lovers must visit the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, which showcases a remarkable collection of surrealist art. The Chihuly Collection, featuring breathtaking glass art by Dale Chihuly, is another cultural gem in the area.

Nature enthusiasts explore natural beauty at Fort De Soto Park, a picturesque paradise

perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or picnicking amidst scenic vistas. Additionally, the Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg is a botanical paradise of lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and exotic flora.

Pinellas is also known for its vibrant food and diverse culinary offerings to suit every palate. Villagers indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants, savor flavors from around the world, and enjoy laid-back waterfront dining.

Sports enthusiasts catch MLB Spring Training games at not one, but two ballparks in Pinellas. The Toronto Blue Jays and Philadelphia Phillies have spring training facilities in the area, providing an opportunity to witness professional baseball teams from both the American League and Senior Circuit.

Villagers with retail therapy on their minds explore various shopping districts in Pinellas. From high-end boutiques to outlet malls to flea markets, there are plenty of

options for fashion, home decor, and unique gifts.

Pinellas County has something for every Villager, whether you need an escape to lounge on the beach, immerse yourself in art and culture, explore nature, indulge in delicious cuisine, catch a baseball game, or enjoy a shopping spree.

PINELLAS COUNTY

DISTANCE:

101 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES

TRAVEL TIME:

2 HOURS BY CAR

Explore Tampa Bay: Visit The Florida Aquarium, a worldclass attraction where you immerse yourself in mesmerizing marine life. Discover the fascinating history of Tampa at the Henry B. Plant Museum, housed in the historic Tampa Bay Hotel. Stroll along the vibrant Riverwalk and indulge in delicious cuisine. Have an itch for boating? Hop aboard the entertaining Pirate Water Taxi or exhilarating Bay Rocket.

Discover Nature: Hillsborough County is home to stunning natural wonders, including the renowned Hillsborough River State Park. Embark on a hiking adventure along picturesque trails, kayak along the river, or have a relaxing picnic surrounded by nature's serenity. For those seeking a more adrenaline-filled experience, the Alafia River State Park offers mountain biking trails through scenic terrain.

Cultural Enrichment: The Tampa Museum of Art showcases a diverse collection of contemporary

County

and classical artwork. The Straz Center for the Performing Arts hosts world-class theater productions, concerts, and Broadway shows. For history buffs, the Tampa Bay History Center offers fascinating exhibits that provide insight into the region's past.

Retail Therapy and Dining Delights: Villagers satisfy their shopping cravings at the International Plaza and Bay Street, a premier shopping destination with a wide array of high-end retailers. Afterward, savor delectable dining options at the vibrant culinary scene in Tampa's SoHo district or enjoy fresh seafood at the renowned Ulele, a restaurant on the Hillsborough River that serves mouth-watering fare with barbacoa grilling, and housebrewed beers.

Sports: Cheer for your favorite team at Raymond James Stadium, home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, or attend a thrilling game at Amalie Arena, where the Tampa Bay Lightning play. Golf

lovers will also find numerous championship courses in the area, perfect for a leisurely round.

With its wealth of natural beauty, cultural attractions, dining experiences, and sports events, Hillsborough County presents a myriad of exciting activities for Villagers. Why not venture beyond The Villages and explore the wonders of Hillsborough County?

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

DISTANCE:

79.1 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES

TRAVEL TIME:

1 HOUR 20 MINUTES BY CAR

ORANGE

County

Villagers feeling the urge to burst through the bubble and explore Florida should indulge in the abundance of attractions and opportunities to enjoy in nearby Orange County.

Explore Orlando’s Fun Spots: Southeast of The Villages lies the magical city of Orlando, home to world-renowned theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando. Whether you're seeking exhilarating rides, enchanting characters, or aquatic adventures, Orlando offers endless entertainment for all ages.

Discover Natural Beauty: Orange County boasts several picturesque parks and outdoor spaces. The Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve is a serene oasis with hiking trails, wildlife, and stunning views. Lake Eola Park, located in downtown Orlando, offers a scenic lake with a walking trail along its perimeter, swan-shaped paddleboats, and regular events like farmers markets and concerts.

Shop and Dine: Shopaholics and food enthusiasts must visit the Florida Mall for modish stores

to browse and a food court with a multitude of choices or the Mall at Millenia for upscale shopping featuring renowned fashion brands and luxurious boutiques. For a more eclectic experience, explore Winter Garden, where charming streets are lined with independent shops, trendy restaurants, and cozy cafes.

Cultural Immersion: The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts hosts world-class Broadway shows, concerts, and ballet performances. The Orlando Museum of Art and the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art showcase an impressive collection of visual arts.

Sports: Catch NBA action at the Amway Center, home of the up-andcoming Orlando Magic, led by 2023 Rookie of the Year Paolo Bachero. Hockey enthusiasts should check out the Orlando Solar Bears. Get a kick out of Major League Soccer at Exploria Stadium, where Orlando City SC plays. Football fans have two choices of teams to follow – the Orlando Guardians of the XFL, and the Orlando Predators in the Arena League. Golf lovers will find a multitude of challenging courses throughout the county, perfect for honing their skills.

With all that just a hop, skip, and a jump away, head on out Villagers and enjoy a diverse range of activities and experiences beyond the bubble. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, culture, or entertainment, Orange offers something for everyone. So, take a day trip or weekend getaway and explore the many treasures of Orange County.

ORANGE COUNTY

DISTANCE: 57.8 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES

TRAVEL TIME: 1 HOUR BY CAR

PATIOS

Whether you want to turn your garage into a showpiece or simply need a functional space to store and protect your valuable belongings, Innovative Concrete Coatings offer the best value in the industry for enhancing any home’s garage and concrete surfaces. More reliable and durable than epoxy, our coatings are designed for years of abuse.

• Superior to Epoxy

• Extremely Durable

• 100 UV Resistant

• Crack & Stain Resistant

• Slip-Resistant Surface

• 15 Year Warranty

LARGE

TCALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

here are now new fixed index annuities with high “participation” rates guaranteed for the entire contract term that challenge the earning power of many stocks and mutual funds but without the risk of loss due to market decline. Multi-year guaranteed annuities (MYGA) are not new. They earn a modest capped fixed rate. But today there are new fixed index annuities with uncapped participation rates exceeding 200% guaranteed for the contract term with the potential to earn far more than MYGA’s and more than many mutual funds.

Most fixed and fixed index annuities have rates guaranteed only for the 1-year or 2-year

“point-to-point” period. The insurance carrier can change rates throughout the rest of the contract term. This can reduce the earning power of the annuity. However, today, there are new annuities that guarantee 200%+ participation rates for the entire contract term. This is important because rates today are among the highest experienced and will not last without the contract term guarantee.

Retirees shouldn’t risk their retirement nest egg with stocks and mutual funds that can be impacted suddenly by market declines. The new fixed index annuities today provide a smarter way to protect, grow, and enjoy assets in retirement.

Jim McArdle , is a Certi�ied Annuity Specialist (CAS®) and a Certi�ied Tax Specialist (CTS ™ ). He is also a former practicing CPA with a Master’s degree in Taxation (MST). He is insurance and securities licensed.

Olivia Wooten , is a Certi�ied Annuity Specialist (CAS®) and a licensed insurance agent.

Securities offered through Innovation partners, LLC. Member of FINRA/SIPC. Best Fit Annuities is not affiliated with Innovation Partners LLC. Jim is a Registered Representative.

Olivia Wooten, CAS

SweetROSES

A taste of history and great food await at The Rose Plantation

Story: James Combs

Black Angus filet, pot roast, duck, and pastas.

for newspaper publisher William Dwight of Massachusetts. It sits on a four-acre property along Fountain Lake in Fruitland Park.

As you enter the historic house, you’ll pass a beautiful rose garden. It’s easy to let your mind drift back to the early 1900s and imagine the wonderful galas, masquerades, teas, tennis tournaments, and other social events once held here.

Step inside and you will marvel at the eclectic china, fine silverware, and linen tablecloths that enhance the atmosphere even more.

“The Rose Plantation is a destination dining location,” says owner Dave Andrews. “We’re a property and home from the Gilded Age and that is the ambiance we carry forward. It was an era of manners and service. That’s what you find here.”

Dave says the restaurant is a unique combination of “fine dining, high-quality food, ambiance, and spirit.” Some of the more popular food items include a 10- or 16-ounce prime rib and crab cake. Diners also love the caramelized apple chicken,

“People tell us all the time that our prime rib is the best that they’ve had anywhere,” Dave says. “Also, customers from Maryland tell us that our crab cakes are as good as Maryland crab cakes.”

Fortunately, you won’t have to break the bank to enjoy this high-quality food. Nine entrees on the menu cost less than $30.

“That allows people to have a fine-dining experience at an affordable price,” Dave says. “We’re not going to skimp on quality, but we still have dishes that are very affordable.”

No wonder that approximately 50 percent of customers come from as far away as St. Petersburg, Orlando, Clermont, and Inverness. The restaurant also hosts five-course private dining events and custom multi-course wine dinners.

Soon, Dave plans on offering tours

of the 2.5-story home, which features five bedrooms and four bathrooms upstairs.

Eventually, The Rose Plantation will become more than a restaurant. Dave is renovating the entire upstairs into a bar and mingle deck in hopes of attracting younger clientele. This will allow guests to enjoy drinks with friends while sharing fun conversations and lots of laughter.

We know current Villagers are the best at recruiting future Villagers. Who do you know that is ready to speak with one of these wonderful employers?