Good Morning, Villages. From hero stories that make you proud to call this place home, to Costco’s grand opening frenzy (hot dogs and bulk TP included), plus a sneak peek at Wellpoint’s booming south side—you’ve got plenty to sip your coffee over today.

On this day in 1942, U.S. Marines landed on Guadalcanal—the first significant Allied offensive in the Pacific during WWII.

📨 If this email was forwarded to you, you can subscribe here.

Let’s dive in.

Monday’s Poll Results

First Responders: Our Everyday Legends

Thanks to all who answered Monday’s poll. If you’ve ever wondered what kind of folks live in The Villages, this week’s poll says it all: the kind who step up when others are in trouble. Out of 217 responses, a majority had first responder experience.

🚓 Law enforcement took the lead (45), with veterans of decades-long police careers.
🚒 Firefighters (37) made their mark early, with one reader joining the department at 21.
🏥 Nurses, EMTs, 911 operators—you name it, Villagers have done it, often for years on end.

Even those outside the main categories chimed in with stories of medical tech work, triage nursing, and probation service. It’s clear this community is packed with calm heads and big hearts—the kind of people you’d want around in any emergency.

Pulse Recommends

I read 1440 every morning because it gives me all the important news—without the spin—in just five minutes, and I think you'll love it too. Give it a try, it’s free to sign up, and it helps keep the lights on at Villages Pulse at the same time!

Daily News for Curious Minds

Be the smartest person in the room by reading 1440! Dive into 1440, where 4 million Americans find their daily, fact-based news fix. We navigate through 100+ sources to deliver a comprehensive roundup from every corner of the internet – politics, global events, business, and culture, all in a quick, 5-minute newsletter. It's completely free and devoid of bias or political influence, ensuring you get the facts straight. Subscribe to 1440 today.

Sign up now!

Villages Development News

Business News

Costco Craze—or Costco Wait-and-See?

The Villages woke up buzzing this morning—after years of talk, Costco finally threw open its doors yesterday at 8 am at Buffalo Ridge Plaza. A festival of folding chairs, early‑morning coffee, and anticipation turned into sheer celebration as locals—some camped out pre‑dawn—made their way in. Were you there? Hit reply and let us know!

Monday’s Poll Recap: With 294 votes, our latest poll shows The Villages is clearly ready for some bulk shopping—but not everyone’s rushing the doors just yet.

• 🟩 Already Members led the pack (151), many longtime loyalists thrilled to finally have Costco in their backyard. One reader bragged about a $322 rewards check they’re saving for opening day.

• 🟨 New Sign-Ups (60) couldn’t wait to join, while 53 folks are holding out until the “hype fizzles.”

• A handful plan to stick with Sam’s or BJ’s for convenience—one reader quipped, “What can I say? I’m from Arkansas 🤣”—and a few will “guest shop first, join later.”

Whether you’re flashing your card on day one or waiting until the crowds thin, one thing’s certain: bulk chicken and $1.50 hot dogs just got a whole lot closer to home. As did that tasty Member’s Mark Bourbon made by Barton 1792 Distillery 🤤.

Portillo’s Opens Next Week

Portillo’s officially opens its doors at 2283 Dr Randy McDaniel Wy, Sumterville on Tuesday, August 12—get ready to treat yourself to their iconic Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef, and famous chocolate cake shakes. A ribbon cutting ceremony starts at 9:30 am, with door’s opening at 10:00 am.

Upcoming Events

Want a Featured Event with a poster/image? Reach out.

No Limit Deep Stack Tourney | Oxford Downs | Thu Aug 7 | 6:15 | Details

🐎 Summer Series IX Hunter/Jumper | World Equestrian Center | Thu - Sun | Details

🌆 Sunset Social: Putt & Play Tourney | Franklin | Fri Aug 8 | 6 pm | Details

💃 Ballroom Blast | Seabreeze Rec | Fri Aug 8 | 6:30 pm | Details

⛳️ Putt, Chip & Pitch Clinic | Sarasota | Fri Aug 8 | 8:30 am | Details

🎤 Donna Moor Diva Legends Show | Old Mill Playhouse | Aug 8 | 5 PM | Tickets

🍸️ Mixology Class | Legacy Restaurant | Sat Aug 9 | 12 pm | Register

🎸 Jack Knife Live Classic Rock | Oxford Tiki Bar | Sat Aug 9 | 7 - 11 PM | Details

🏌️ David’s Full Swing Clinic | Lopez Legacy | Mon Aug 11 | 8:30 am | Details

⛳️ New To Golf School | Sarasota | Mon Aug 11 | 9 am | Details

🍽️ Cooking Class | Legacy Restaurant | Tue Aug 12 | 12 pm & 2:30 pm | <Register at link

🎨 🍷 Paint & Sip | Legacy Restaurant | Thu Aug 14 | 12 PM | Register

🎦 Free Movie for Seniors: Sketch | Old Mill Playhouse | Mon Aug 18 | 2pm | Register 

On Sale This Week

Van Morrison Hits - The Van Band | Savannah | Oct 1 | Details + Tickets

The Foreigner Experience | Savannah | Oct 8 | Details + Tickets

Gypsie: A Musical Fable | Savanah | Oct 14 - 16 | Details + Tickets

John Truth & Reflexx: Bob Marley Tribute | Savannah | Oct 25 | Details + Tickets

If you have an event you want to announce to 6,300+ local Villagers, email us the details at [email protected]

Live Music Lowdown

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Thanks!

That’s a wrap for this issue! Whether you’re grabbing a $1.50 dog at Costco, catching live music this weekend, or just enjoying the quiet Florida sunshine, thanks for letting Villages Pulse keep you in the loop. Share this with a neighbor—they’ll thank you later.

P.S. Want to get your business in front of 6,300+ local Villagers? Reach out or Email us at [email protected]